Sample records for jebsen-taylor hand function

  1. Use of Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test in evaluating the hand dexterity in people with Parkinson's disease.

    PubMed

    Mak, M K Y; Lau, E T L; Tam, V W K; Woo, C W Y; Yuen, S K Y

    2015-01-01

    To investigate the test-retest reliability of JTT in older patients with Parkinson's disease (PD); and to compare the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTT) scores between PD and healthy subjects. Cross-sectional comparative study. Fifteen PD and fifteen healthy subjects performed the JTT and the time taken to complete the JTT was recorded. Test-retest reliabilities of JTT subtests and total score of both dominant and non-dominant hand were good to excellent (ICCs = 0.77-0.97) except J5 checkers which had moderate reliability. PD subjects required significantly longer time to finish subtests and the whole JTT (p < 0.05), except the subtest J1 writing of dominant hand that showed marginal significance (p = 0.059). JTT is a reliable and easily available assessment tool for assessing the hand function of PD subjects. PD subjects took a longer time to complete the JTT, suggesting that they have deficits in gross and fine functional dexterity. Copyright © 2015 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. The Jebsen Taylor Test of Hand Function: A Pilot Test-Retest Reliability Study in Typically Developing Children.

    PubMed

    Reedman, Sarah Elizabeth; Beagley, Simon; Sakzewski, Leanne; Boyd, Roslyn N

    2016-08-01

    The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate reproducibility of the Jebsen Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF) in children. Eighty-seven typically developing children 5 to 10 years old were included from five Outside School Hours Care centers in the Greater Brisbane Region, Australia. Hand function was assessed on two occasions with a modified JTTHF, then reproducibility was assessed using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC [3,1]) and the Standard Error of Measurement (SEM). Total scores for male and female children were not significantly different. Five-year-old children were significantly different to all other age groups and were excluded from further analysis. Results for 71 children, 6 to 10 years old were analyzed (mean age 8.31 years (SD 1.32); 33 males). Test-retest reliability for total scores on the dominant and nondominant hands were ICC 0.74 (95% CI 0.61, 0.83) and ICC 0.72 (95% CI 0.59, 0.82), respectively. 'Writing' and 'Simulated Feeding' subtests demonstrated poor reproducibility. The Smallest Real Difference was 5.09 seconds for total score on the dominant hand. Findings indicate good test-retest reliability for the JTTHF total score to measure hand function in typically developing children aged 6 to 10 years.

  3. Fine motor skills predict performance in the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test after stroke.

    PubMed

    Allgöwer, Kathrin; Hermsdörfer, Joachim

    2017-10-01

    To determine factors characterizing the differences in fine motor performance between stroke patients and controls. To confirm the relevance of the factors by analyzing their predictive power with regard to the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), a common clinical test of fine motor control. Twenty-two people with slight paresis in an early chronic phase following stroke and twenty-two healthy controls were examined. Performance on the JTHFT, Nine-Hole Peg Test and 2-point discrimination was evaluated. To analyze object manipulation skills, grip forces and temporal measures were examined during (1) lifting actions with variations of weight and surface (2) cyclic movements (3) predictive/reactive catching tasks. Three other aspects of force control included (4) visuomotor tracking (5) fast force changes and (6) grip strength. Based on 9 parameters which significantly distinguished fine motor performance in the two groups, we identified three principal components (factors): grip force scaling, motor coordination and speed of movement. The three factors are shown to predict JTHFT scores via linear regression (R 2 =0.687, p<0.001). We revealed a factor structure behind fine motor impairments following stroke and showed that it explains JTHFT results to a large extend. This result can serve as a basis for improving diagnostics and enabling more targeted therapy. Copyright © 2017 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Reliability, validity and description of timed performance of the Jebsen-Taylor Test in patients with muscular dystrophies.

    PubMed

    Artilheiro, Mariana Cunha; Fávero, Francis Meire; Caromano, Fátima Aparecida; Oliveira, Acary de Souza Bulle; Carvas, Nelson; Voos, Mariana Callil; Sá, Cristina Dos Santos Cardoso de

    2017-12-08

    The Jebsen-Taylor Test evaluates upper limb function by measuring timed performance on everyday activities. The test is used to assess and monitor the progression of patients with Parkinson disease, cerebral palsy, stroke and brain injury. To analyze the reliability, internal consistency and validity of the Jebsen-Taylor Test in people with Muscular Dystrophy and to describe and classify upper limb timed performance of people with Muscular Dystrophy. Fifty patients with Muscular Dystrophy were assessed. Non-dominant and dominant upper limb performances on the Jebsen-Taylor Test were filmed. Two raters evaluated timed performance for inter-rater reliability analysis. Test-retest reliability was investigated by using intraclass correlation coefficients. Internal consistency was assessed using the Cronbach alpha. Construct validity was conducted by comparing the Jebsen-Taylor Test with the Performance of Upper Limb. The internal consistency of Jebsen-Taylor Test was good (Cronbach's α=0.98). A very high inter-rater reliability (0.903-0.999), except for writing with an Intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.772-1.000. Strong correlations between the Jebsen-Taylor Test and the Performance of Upper Limb Module were found (rho=-0.712). The Jebsen-Taylor Test is a reliable and valid measure of timed performance for people with Muscular Dystrophy. Copyright © 2017 Associação Brasileira de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação em Fisioterapia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  5. Design and test of an automated version of the modified Jebsen test of hand function using Microsoft Kinect.

    PubMed

    Simonsen, Daniel; Nielsen, Ida F; Spaich, Erika G; Andersen, Ole K

    2017-05-02

    The present paper describes the design and evaluation of an automated version of the Modified Jebsen Test of Hand Function (MJT) based on the Microsoft Kinect sensor. The MJT was administered twice to 11 chronic stroke subjects with varying degrees of hand function deficits. The test times of the MJT were evaluated manually by a therapist using a stopwatch, and automatically using the Microsoft Kinect sensor. The ground truth times were assessed based on inspection of the video-recordings. The agreement between the methods was evaluated along with the test-retest performance. The results from Bland-Altman analysis showed better agreement between the ground truth times and the automatic MJT time evaluations compared to the agreement between the ground truth times and the times estimated by the therapist. The results from the test-retest performance showed that the subjects significantly improved their performance in several subtests of the MJT, indicating a practice effect. The results from the test showed that the Kinect can be used for automating the MJT.

  6. Robot-Assisted Training of Arm and Hand Movement Shows Functional Improvements for Incomplete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury.

    PubMed

    Francisco, Gerard E; Yozbatiran, Nuray; Berliner, Jeffrey; OʼMalley, Marcia K; Pehlivan, Ali Utku; Kadivar, Zahra; Fitle, Kyle; Boake, Corwin

    2017-10-01

    The aim of the study was to demonstrate the feasibility, tolerability, and effectiveness of robotic-assisted arm training in incomplete chronic tetraplegia. Pretest/posttest/follow-up was conducted. Ten individuals with chronic cervical spinal cord injury were enrolled. Participants performed single degree-of-freedom exercise of upper limbs at an intensity of 3-hr per session for 3 times a week for 4 wks with MAHI Exo-II. Arm and hand function tests (Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, Action Research Arm Test), strength of upper limb (upper limb motor score, grip, and pinch strength), and independence in daily living activities (Spinal Cord Independence Measure II) were performed at baseline, end of training, and 6 mos later. After 12 sessions of training, improvements in arm and hand functions were observed. Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (0.14[0.04]-0.21[0.07] items/sec, P = 0.04), Action Research Arm Test (30.7[3.8]-34.3[4], P = 0.02), American Spinal Injury Association upper limb motor score (31.5[2.3]-34[2.3], P = 0.04) grip (9.7[3.8]-12[4.3] lb, P = 0.02), and pinch strength (4.5[1.1]-5.7[1.2] lb, P = 0.01) resulted in significant increases. Some gains were maintained at 6 mos. No change in Spinal Cord Independence Measure II scores and no adverse events were observed. Results from this pilot study suggest that repetitive training of arm movements with MAHI Exo-II exoskeleton is safe and has potential to be an adjunct treatment modality in rehabilitation of persons with spinal cord injury with mild to moderate impaired arm functions.

  7. A retrospective outcomes study examining the effect of interactive metronome on hand function.

    PubMed

    Shank, Tracy M; Harron, Wendy

    2015-01-01

    Interactive Metronome (IM, The Interactive Metronome Company, Sunrise, Florida, USA) is a computer-based modality marketed to rehabilitation professionals who want to improve outcomes in areas of coordination, motor skills, self-regulation behaviors, and cognitive skills. This retrospective study examined the efficacy of IM training on improving timing skills, hand function, and parental report of self-regulatory behaviors. Forty eight children with mixed motor and cognitive diagnoses completed an average of 14 one-hour training sessions over an average of 8.5 weeks in an outpatient setting. Each child was assessed before and after training with the Interactive Metronome Long Form Assessment, the Jebsen Taylor Test of Hand Function, and a parent questionnaire. All three measures improved with statistical significance despite participants having no direct skill training. These results suggest an intimate relationship between cognition and motor skills that has potential therapeutic value. Level 4, Retrospective Case Series. Copyright © 2015 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Comparison of Hand Function Between Children With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Children Without Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

    PubMed

    Atay, Canan; Kaya Mutlu, Ebru; Taskiran, Hanifegul; Ozgen, Ilker Tolga

    2018-01-01

    This study compared the hand function of children between the ages of 8 and 12 years with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) with that of children without diabetes. The Modified Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test and the Purdue Pegboard Test were used to assess hand function. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 was used for evaluating health-related quality of life. Duration of writing was found to be significantly longer on the dominant side of the T1DM group compared with the children without T1DM. The durations of card turning, moving large, light objects, and large, heavy objects on the nondominant side of the T1DM group were also found to be significantly longer than those in the children without T1DM. The total scale score of health-related quality of life was significantly lower in the T1DM group compared with the children without T1DM. T1DM affects hand function, particularly the dominant side for writing and nondominant side for card turning and moving large objects.

  9. Hand rehabilitation using MIDI keyboard playing in adolescents with brain damage: a preliminary study.

    PubMed

    Chong, Hyun Ju; Cho, Sung-Rae; Kim, Soo Ji

    2014-01-01

    As a sequential, programmed movement of fingers, keyboard playing is a promising technique for inducing execution and a high level of coordination during finger movements. Also, keyboard playing can be physically and emotionally rewarding for adolescents in rehabilitation settings and thereby motivate continued involvement in treatment. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of keyboard playing using Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) on finger movement for adolescents with brain damage. Eight adolescents with brain damage, ages 9 to 18 years (M = 13 years, SD = 2.78), in physical rehabilitation settings participated in this study. Measurements included MIDI keyboard playing for pressing force of the fingers and hand function tests (Grip and Pinch Power Test, Box and Block Test of Manual Dexterity [BBT], and the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test). Results showed increased velocity of all fingers on the MIDI-based test, and statistical significance was found in the velocity of F2 (index finger), F3 (middle finger), and F5 (little finger) between pre- and post-training tests. Correlation analysis between the pressing force of the finger and hand function tests showed a strong positive correlation between the measure of grip power and the pressing force of F2 and F5 on the Grip and Pinch Strength Test. All fingers showed strong correlation between MIDI results and BBT. For the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, only the moving light objects task at post-training yielded strong correlation with MIDI results of all fingers. The results support using keyboard playing for hand rehabilitation, especially in the pressing force of individual finger sequential movements. Further investigation is needed to define the feasibility of the MIDI program for valid hand rehabilitation for people with brain damage.

  10. Assessment of the Ipsilesional Hand Function in Stroke Survivors: The Effect of Lesion Side.

    PubMed

    Cunha, Bianca Pinto; de Freitas, Sandra Maria Sbeghen Ferreira; de Freitas, Paulo Barbosa

    2017-07-01

    The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the side of brain lesion on the ipsilesional hand function of stroke survivors. Twenty-four chronic stroke survivors, equally allocated in 2 groups according to the side of brain lesion (right or left), and 12 sex- and age-matched healthy controls performed the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT), the maximum power grip strength (PwGS max ) test, and the maximum pinch grip strength (PnGS max ) test. Only the ipsilesional hand of the stroke survivors and both hands (left and right) of the controls were assessed. PwGS max and PnGS max were similar among all tested groups. Performances in JTHFT and 9HPT were affected by the brain injury. Individuals with left brain damage showed better performance in 9HPT than individuals with right brain damage, but performance in JTHFT was similar. Individuals after a brain injury have the capacity to produce maximum strength preserved when using their ipsilesional hand. However, the dexterity of their hands and digits is affected, in particular for stroke individuals with right brain lesion. Copyright © 2017 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Hand function evaluation: a factor analysis study.

    PubMed

    Jarus, T; Poremba, R

    1993-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate hand function evaluations. Factor analysis with varimax rotation was used to assess the fundamental characteristics of the items included in the Jebsen Hand Function Test and the Smith Hand Function Evaluation. The study sample consisted of 144 subjects without disabilities and 22 subjects with Colles fracture. Results suggest a four factor solution: Factor I--pinch movement; Factor II--grasp; Factor III--target accuracy; and Factor IV--activities of daily living. These categories differentiated the subjects without Colles fracture from the subjects with Colles fracture. A hand function evaluation consisting of these four factors would be useful. Such an evaluation that can be used for current clinical purposes is provided.

  12. Predicting hand function in older adults: evaluations of grip strength, arm curl strength, and manual dexterity.

    PubMed

    Liu, Chiung-Ju; Marie, Deana; Fredrick, Aaron; Bertram, Jessica; Utley, Kristen; Fess, Elaine Ewing

    2017-08-01

    Hand function is critical for independence in activities of daily living for older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine how grip strength, arm curl strength, and manual dexterous coordination contributed to time-based versus self-report assessment of hand function in community-dwelling older adults. Adults aged ≥60 years without low vision or neurological disorders were recruited. Purdue Pegboard Test, Jamar hand dynamometer, 30-second arm curl test, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, and the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument were administered to assess manual dexterous coordination, grip strength, arm curl strength, time-based hand function, and self-report of hand function, respectively. Eighty-four adults (mean age = 72 years) completed the study. Hierarchical multiple regressions show that older adults with better arm curl strength (β = -.25, p < .01) and manual dexterous coordination (β = -.52, p < .01) performed better on the time-based hand function test. In comparison, older adults with better grip strength (β = .40, p < .01), arm curl strength (β = .23, p < .05), and manual dexterous coordination (β = .23, p < .05) were associated with better self-report of upper extremity function. The relationship between grip strength and hand function may be test-specific. Grip strength becomes a significant factor when the test requires grip strength to successfully complete the test tasks. Arm curl strength independently contributed to hand function in both time-based and self-report assessments, indicating that strength of extrinsic muscles of the hand are essential for hand function.

  13. Hand Sensorimotor Function in Older Children With Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy.

    PubMed

    Brown, Susan H; Wernimont, Cory W; Phillips, Lauren; Kern, Kathy L; Nelson, Virginia S; Yang, Lynda J-S

    2016-03-01

    Routine sensory assessments in neonatal brachial plexus palsy are infrequently performed because it is generally assumed that sensory recovery exceeds motor recovery. However, studies examining sensory function in neonatal brachial plexus palsy have produced equivocal findings. The purpose of this study was to examine hand sensorimotor function in older children with neonatal brachial plexus palsy using standard clinical and research-based measures of tactile sensibility. Seventeen children with neonatal brachial plexus palsy (mean age: 11.6 years) and 19 age-matched controls participated in the study. Functional assessments included grip force, monofilament testing, and hand dexterity (Nine-Hole Peg, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function). Tactile spatial perception involving the discrimination of pin patterns and movement-enhanced object recognition (stereognosis) were also assessed. In the neonatal brachial plexus palsy group, significant deficits in the affected hand motor function were observed compared with the unaffected hand. Median monofilament scores were considered normal for both hands. In contrast, tactile spatial perception was impaired in the neonatal brachial plexus palsy group. This impairment was seen as deficits in both pin pattern and object recognition accuracy as well as the amount of time required to identify patterns and objects. Tactile pattern discrimination time significantly correlated with performance on both functional assessment tests (P < 0.01). This study provides evidence that tactile perception deficits may accompany motor deficits in neonatal brachial plexus palsy even when measures of tactile registration (i.e., monofilament testing) are normal. These results may reflect impaired processing of somatosensory feedback associated with reductions in goal-directed upper limb use and illustrate the importance of including a broader range of sensory assessments in neonatal brachial plexus palsy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights

  14. Comparison of positive pressure gloves on hand function in adults with burns.

    PubMed

    O'Brien, Kimberly A; Weinstock-Zlotnick, Gwen; Hunter, Hope; Yurt, Roger W

    2006-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of a standard, custom-made pressure glove vs The NewYork-Presbyterian Dexterity Glove (NYPDG) with silon application on the palmer surface on functional hand use of burn survivors. A standard, custom-made pressure glove and NYPDG were given to 18 participants in a randomized order. Subjects wore each glove for 7 to 10 days during all activities of daily living (ADL). Variables such as hand function, difficulty of fine and gross motor ADL, and participant glove preference were assessed with each glove condition. Data collection of the second glove took place 7 to 10 days later incorporating a quasiexperimental, repeated measure design. A crossover design was used to analyze the data. The NYPDG demonstrated significantly better results in all of the four outcome categories measured: time to complete the Jebsen, the Jebsen Likert scale, fine motor ADL, and gross motor ADL. This study demonstrated that functional tasks took less time to complete and were more easily performed when using the NYPDG.

  15. Validation of the questionnaire on hand function assessment in leprosy.

    PubMed

    Ferreira, Telma Leonel; Alvarez, Rosicler Rocha Aiza; Virmond, Marcos da Cunha Lopes

    2012-06-01

    To validate the psychometric properties of the questionnaire on hand function assessment in leprosy. Study conducted with a convenience sample of 101 consecutive patients in Brasília (Central-Western Brazil), from June 2008 to July 2009. The individuals were adults affected by leprosy, with impairment of the ulnar, median and radial nerves. Interobservers and intraobserver reproducibility was analyzed through successive interviews, and construct validity was analyzed through association between age, clinical form of leprosy, duration of nerve injury, grip and pinch strength measured with a dynamometer, sensibility test performed with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments and manual ability assessment using the Jebsen test of hand function. Pondered kappa coefficient was calculated and a Bland-Altman plot was constructed to assess the reproducibility of the instrument. For internal consistency, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was utilized. Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated and a multiple regression model was used. The pondered kappa values for interobservers and intraobserver assessments ranged from 0.86 to 0.97 and from 0.85 to 0.97, respectively. The value of Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.967. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed an association (p < 0.001) among duration of nerve injury, grip and pinch strength, cutaneous sensibility and mean score in the Jebsen Test. The mean score of the questionnaire on hand functional assessment in leprosy was associated with operational classification of leprosy, duration of nerve injury, grip strength, cutaneous sensibility and manual ability (p < 0.0001 for the model as a whole). The questionnaire on hand functional assessment in leprosy presents almost perfect interobservers and intraobserver reproducibility, high internal consistency and correlation with operational classification of leprosy, duration of nerve injury, grip strength, cutaneous sensibility in the hands and manual ability.

  16. Responsiveness of outcome measures for upper limb prosthetic rehabilitation.

    PubMed

    Resnik, Linda; Borgia, Matthew

    2016-02-01

    There is limited research on responsiveness of prosthetic rehabilitation outcome measures. To examine responsiveness of the Box and Block test, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function tests, Upper Extremity Functional Scale, University of New Brunswick skill and spontaneity tests, Activity Measure for Upper Limb Amputation, and the Patient-Specific Functional Scale. This was a quasi-experimental study with repeated measurements in a convenience sample of upper limb amputees. Measures were collected before, during, and after training with the DEKA Arm. Largest effect sizes were observed for Patient-Specific Functional Scale (effect size: 1.59, confidence interval: 1.00, 2.14), Activity Measure for Upper Limb Amputation (effect size: 1.33, confidence interval: 0.73, 1.90), and University of New Brunswick skill test (effect size: 1.18, confidence interval: 0.61, 1.73). Other measures that were responsive to change were Box and Block test, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function light and heavy can tests, and University of New Brunswick spontaneity test. Responsiveness and pattern of responsiveness varied by prosthetic level. The Box and Block test, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function light and heavy can tests, University of New Brunswick skill and spontaneity tests, Activities Measure for Upper Limb Amputation, and the Patient-Specific Functional Scale were responsive to change during prosthetic training. These findings have implications for choice of measures for research and practice and inform clinicians about the amount of training necessary to maximize outcomes with the DEKA Arm. Findings on responsiveness of outcome measures have implications for the choice of measures for clinical trials and practice. Findings regarding the responsiveness to change over the course of training can inform clinicians about the amount of training that may be necessary to maximize specific outcomes with the DEKA Arm. © The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics 2014.

  17. Improvements in hand function in adults with chronic tetraplegia following a multi-day 10Hz rTMS intervention combined with repetitive task practice

    PubMed Central

    Gomes-Osman, Joyce; Field-Fote, Edelle C.

    2014-01-01

    Background and Purpose Evidence suggests the use of stimulation to increase corticomotor excitability improves hand function in persons with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). We assessed effects of multi-day application of 10Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) applied to the corticomotor hand area combined with repetitive task practice (RTP) in participants with tetraplegia and neurologically healthy participants. Methods Using a double-blind randomized crossover design, 11 participants with chronic tetraplegia and 10 neurologically healthy participants received 3 sessions of 10Hz rTMS+RTP and 3 sessions of sham-rTMS+RTP to the corticomotor hand region controlling the weaker hand. RTMS was interleaved with RTP of a skilled motor task between pulse trains. Hand function (Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test [JTT], pinch, and grasp strength) and corticomotor excitability (amplitude of motor-evoked potential) were assessed prior to and following the rTMS+RTP and sham-rTMS+RTP phases. We assessed significance using paired t-tests on pre-post differences and effect sizes using standardized response mean (SRM). Results RTMS+RTP was associated with larger effect sizes compared to sham-rTMS+RTP for improvement in JTT for both the trained hand (SRM=0.85 and 0.42, respectively), non-trained hand (0.55, 0.31, respectively), and for grasp strength of the trained hand in the SCI group (0.67, 0.39, respectively) alone. Effect sizes for all other measures were small and there were no statistical between-condition differences in the outcomes assessed. Discussion and Conclusions RTMS may be a valuable adjunct to RTP for improving hand function in persons with tetraplegia. Higher stimulation dose (frequency, intensity, number of sessions) may be associated with larger effects. Video Abstract available (See Supplemental Digital Conent 1) for more insights from the authors. PMID:25415549

  18. Efficacy of neurodevelopmental treatment combined with the Nintendo® Wii in patients with cerebral palsy

    PubMed Central

    Acar, Gönül; Altun, Gamze Polen; Yurdalan, SaadetUfuk; Polat, Mine Gülden

    2016-01-01

    [Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of Nintendo® Wii games in addition to neurodevelopmental treatment in patients with cerebral palsy. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty hemiparetic cerebral palsy patients (16 females, 14 males; mean age, 6–15 years) were included in the study and divided into two groups: a neurodevelopmental treatment+Nintendo Wii group (group 1, n=15) and a neurodevelopmental treatment group (group 2, n=15). Both groups received treatment in 45-minute sessions 2 days/week for six weeks. Use of the upper extremities, speed, disability and functional independence were evaluated using the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test, Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, ABILHAND-Kids test, and Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (self-care) before and after treatment. [Results] There were statistically significant improvements in all parameters for group 1 and group 2 (except quality of function) after six weeks of treatment. Intergroup analysis showed that group 1 was superior to group 2 in mean change differences in the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test. [Conclusion] Our results showed that neurodevelopmental treatment is effective for improving hand functions in hemiplegic cerebral palsy. To provide a enjoyable, motivational, safe, and effective rehabilitation program, the Nintendo® Wii may be used in addition to neurodevelopmental treatment. PMID:27134357

  19. Efficacy of neurodevelopmental treatment combined with the Nintendo(®) Wii in patients with cerebral palsy.

    PubMed

    Acar, Gönül; Altun, Gamze Polen; Yurdalan, SaadetUfuk; Polat, Mine Gülden

    2016-03-01

    [Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of Nintendo(®) Wii games in addition to neurodevelopmental treatment in patients with cerebral palsy. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty hemiparetic cerebral palsy patients (16 females, 14 males; mean age, 6-15 years) were included in the study and divided into two groups: a neurodevelopmental treatment+Nintendo Wii group (group 1, n=15) and a neurodevelopmental treatment group (group 2, n=15). Both groups received treatment in 45-minute sessions 2 days/week for six weeks. Use of the upper extremities, speed, disability and functional independence were evaluated using the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test, Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, ABILHAND-Kids test, and Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (self-care) before and after treatment. [Results] There were statistically significant improvements in all parameters for group 1 and group 2 (except quality of function) after six weeks of treatment. Intergroup analysis showed that group 1 was superior to group 2 in mean change differences in the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test. [Conclusion] Our results showed that neurodevelopmental treatment is effective for improving hand functions in hemiplegic cerebral palsy. To provide a enjoyable, motivational, safe, and effective rehabilitation program, the Nintendo(®) Wii may be used in addition to neurodevelopmental treatment.

  20. Effects of extensor synovectomy and excision of the distal ulna in rheumatoid arthritis on long-term function.

    PubMed

    Jain, Abhilash; Ball, Cathy; Freidin, Andrew J; Nanchahal, Jagdeep

    2010-09-01

    Objective outcomes data after excision of the distal ulna in rheumatoid arthritis are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional results of this surgery in the long term. We prospectively collected data on range of motion (22 wrists), visual analog pain scores (14 wrists), and grip strength measured using a Jamar dynamometer (20 hands) in a group of 23 patients (26 wrists) preoperatively and at 3 months, 12 months, and a minimum of 5 years postoperatively (range, 5.3-10.4 y). The Jebsen-Taylor hand function test was administered to 9 patients at the same time points. A subgroup of patients also underwent extensor carpi radialis longus to extensor carpi ulnaris tendon transfer (11 wrists). At one year, there were improvements in wrist pronation and supination, which were maintained at final follow-up. Active radial deviation decreased significantly at 3 months (p = .01) and one year (p = .02); this remained reduced at final follow-up (not significant). Wrist extension and active ulnar deviation showed slight improvements by one year, but reduced to levels below that measured preoperatively by final follow-up. Wrist flexion was significantly reduced at all time points postoperatively. Grip strength showed improvement from 10.0 kg (standard deviation [SD] 4.1 kg) preoperatively to 12.5 kg (SD 4.6 kg) 1 year after surgery and returned to preoperative levels (9.5 kg, SD 5.6 kg) by final follow-up. Wrist pain was significantly reduced from a mean score of 5 (SD 4) preoperatively to 2 (SD 2) postoperatively (p = .01). The Jebsen-Taylor hand function test showed improvements in writing and card turning. In the long term, excision of the distal ulna in rheumatoid patients results in an improvement in some aspects of hand function. There is a significant (p = .01) reduction in wrist pain but a reduction of wrist flexion. Therapeutic IV. Copyright 2010 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Validity of semi-quantitative scale for brain MRI in unilateral cerebral palsy due to periventricular white matter lesions: Relationship with hand sensorimotor function and structural connectivity.

    PubMed

    Fiori, Simona; Guzzetta, Andrea; Pannek, Kerstin; Ware, Robert S; Rossi, Giuseppe; Klingels, Katrijn; Feys, Hilde; Coulthard, Alan; Cioni, Giovanni; Rose, Stephen; Boyd, Roslyn N

    2015-01-01

    To provide first evidence of construct validity of a semi-quantitative scale for brain structural MRI (sqMRI scale) in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP) secondary to periventricular white matter (PWM) lesions, by examining the relationship with hand sensorimotor function and whole brain structural connectivity. Cross-sectional study of 50 children with UCP due to PWM lesions using 3 T (MRI), diffusion MRI and assessment of hand sensorimotor function. We explored the relationship of lobar, hemispheric and global scores on the sqMRI scale, with fractional anisotropy (FA), as a measure of brain white matter microstructure, and with hand sensorimotor measures (Assisting Hand Assessment, AHA; Jebsen-Taylor Test for Hand Function, JTTHF; Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function, MUUL; stereognosis; 2-point discrimination). Lobar and hemispheric scores on the sqMRI scale contralateral to the clinical side of hemiplegia correlated with sensorimotor paretic hand function measures and FA of a number of brain structural connections, including connections of brain areas involved in motor control (postcentral, precentral and paracentral gyri in the parietal lobe). More severe lesions correlated with lower sensorimotor performance, with the posterior limb of internal capsule score being the strongest contributor to impaired hand function. The sqMRI scale demonstrates first evidence of construct validity against impaired motor and sensory function measures and brain structural connectivity in a cohort of children with UCP due to PWM lesions. More severe lesions correlated with poorer paretic hand sensorimotor function and impaired structural connectivity in the hemisphere contralateral to the clinical side of hemiplegia. The quantitative structural MRI scoring may be a useful clinical tool for studying brain structure-function relationships but requires further validation in other populations of CP.

  2. Custom-made silicone hand prosthesis: A case study.

    PubMed

    Nayak, S; Lenka, P K; Equebal, A; Biswas, A

    2016-09-01

    Up to now, a cosmetic glove was the most common method for managing transmetacarpal (TMC) and carpometacarpal (CMC) amputations, but it is devoid of markings and body color. At this amputation level, it is very difficult to fit a functional prosthesis because of the short available length, unsightly shape, grafted skin, contracture and lack of functional prosthetic options. A 30-year-old male came to our clinic with amputation at the 1st to 4th carpometacarpal level and a 5th metacarpal that was projected laterally and fused with the carpal bone. The stump had grafted skin, redness, and an unhealed suture line. He complained of pain projected over the metacarpal and suture area. The clinical team members decided to fabricate a custom-made silicone hand prosthesis to accommodate the stump, protect the grafted skin, improve the hand's appearance and provide some passive function. The custom silicone hand prosthesis was fabricated with modified flexible wires to provide passive interphalangeal movement. Basic training, care and maintenance instructions for the prosthesis were given to the patient. The silicone hand prosthesis was able to restore the appearance of the lost digits and provide some passive function. His pain (VAS score) was reduced. Improvement in activities of daily living was found in the DASH questionnaire and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function test. A silicone glove is a good option for more distal amputations, as it can accommodate any deformity, protect the skin, enhance the appearance and provide functional assistance. This case study provides a simple method to get passively movable fingers after proximal hand amputation. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

  3. Comprehensive Hand Repetitive Intensive Strengthening Training (CHRIST)-induced morphological changes in muscle size and associated motor improvement in a child with cerebral palsy: an experimenter-blind study.

    PubMed

    Lee, Dong Ryul; You, Joshua H; Lee, Nam Gi; Oh, Jin Hwan; Cha, You Jin

    2009-01-01

    This case study was conducted to determine Comprehensive Hand Repetitive Intensive Strengthening Training (CHRIST)-induced morphological changes in the commonly affected extensor carpi radialis (ECR) and triceps brachii (TRI) muscle and associated muscle strength and motor performance in a child with hemiparetic cerebral palsy (CP) using standardized clinical tests and ultrasound imaging. A single case study with pre-/post-test. A 4.9-year-old female, diagnosed with hemiparetic CP. The child received a 5-week course of CHRIST course, comprising of 60-minute periods a day, five times a week. A real-time ultrasound imaging was performed to determine the CHRIST-induced changes in cross-sectional area (CSA) of the ECR and TRI. Clinical tests including the modified Wolf Motor function test (WMFT), the modified Jebsen-taylor hand function test (Jebsen hand) and the modified Pediatric Motor Activity Log (PMAL) questionnaire were used to compare the intervention-related changes in motor performance in upper extremity. Ultrasound imaging data showed that the CSAs of both ECR and TRI muscles of the affected upper limb at relaxation and contraction states were enhanced and these therapy-induced morphological changes were associated with enhanced muscle strength and gross motor performance in reaching and grasping skills. Our results suggest that the CHRIST is effective in treating muscle weakness and motor function in a child with hemiparetic CP. This is the first evidence in literature that might shed light on the therapeutic efficacy of our novel intervention on muscle size, associated muscle strength and motor improvement.

  4. Immediate effects of somatosensory stimulation on hand function in patients with poststroke hemiparesis: a randomized cross-over trial.

    PubMed

    Sim, Sun-Mi; Oh, Duck-Won; Chon, Seung-chul

    2015-12-01

    This study aimed to determine the immediate effects of somatosensory stimulation on hand function in patients with poststroke hemiparesis. Eleven patients with poststroke hemiparesis participated in this study. Four types (no stimulation, vibration, and light and rough touches) of somatosensory stimulation were performed randomly for 4 days applying only one type of somatosensory stimulation each day. The box and block test (BBT), the Jebsen-Taylor hand function test (JTHFT), hand grip strength (HGS), and movement distance and peak velocity of the wrist joint during a forward-reaching task were measured. The BBT and JTHFT scores for no stimulation [BBT: median (interquartile range), 0.00 (-1.00 to 1.00) and JTHFT: 2.57 (-0.47 to 4.92)] were significantly different from those for vibration [BBT: 3.00 (2.00-5.00) and JTHFT: -16.02 (-23.06 to -4.31)], light touch [BBT: 3.00 (1.00-4.00) and JTHFT: -5.00 (-21.20 to -0.94)], and rough touch [BBT: 2.00 (1.00-4.00) and JTHFT: -6.19 (-18.22 to -3.70)]. The JTHFT score was significantly higher for vibration than that for rough touch (P<0.05). The increase in HGS was significantly greater for light touch than that for no stimulation (P<0.05) and for vibration than that for light touch (P<0.05). There were significant differences for the sagittal and coronal planes in movement distance and for the sagittal and horizontal planes in peak velocity during the forward-reaching task (P<0.05). The findings suggest that somatosensory stimulation may be advantageous to improve the hand function of patients with poststroke hemiparesis, with more favorable effects observed in vibration stimulation.

  5. Relationship between patient-reported and objective measurements of hand function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

    PubMed

    Günay, S M; Tuna, Z; Oskay, D

    2016-12-31

    Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often results in impairments in upper extremities, especially in the small joints of hand. Involvement of hand brings limitations in activities of daily living. However, it is commonly observed that patient-reported functional status of hand does not always corresponds to their actual physical performance in the clinical setting. The aim of this pilot study is to investigate the relationship between patient self-reported and objectively measured hand functions in patients with RA. Twenty-six patients (51±13 years) with RA diagnosis participated in the study. Hand grip and pinch (lateral, bipod, tripod) strengths were measured and Jebsen Hand Function Test (JHFT) was performed for objective functional performance. Duruöz Hand Index and Beck Depression Inventory - Turkish version were completed by patients. Grip and all three-pinch strength results significantly correlated with Duruöz Hand Index scores (p<0.05). JHFT results except the sentence writing also correlated with the Duruöz scores (p<0.05). Our results showed that self-reported outcome scales might be used for determining functional level of hand in patients with RA in rheumatology practice. Objective quantitative functional tests are the best methods in evaluating functional level of hand, but require valid and reliable equipment with accurate calibration. Therefore, in case of unavailability of objective assessment tools, patient-reported scales may also reflect the real status of hand functions.

  6. Investigation of hand function among children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder with upper extremity trauma history.

    PubMed

    Huri, Meral; Şahin, Sedef; Kayıhan, Hülya

    2016-11-01

    The present study was designed to compare hand function in autistic children with history of upper extremity trauma with that of autistic children those who do not have history of trauma. The study group included total of 65 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and was divided into 2 groups: children with trauma history (Group I) and control group (Group II) (Group I: n=28; Group II: n=37). Hand function was evaluated with 9-Hole Peg Test and Jebsen Hand Function Test. Somatosensory function was evaluated using somatosensory subtests of Sensory Integration and Praxis Test. Results were analyzed with Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test using SPSS version 20 software. Hand function and somatosensory perception test scores were statistically significantly better in children without upper extremity trauma history (p<0.05). When association between hand function tests and upper extremity somatosensory perception tests was taken into account, statistically significant correlations were found between all parameters of hand function tests and Manual Form Perception and Localization of Tactile Stimuli Test results (p<0.05). Autistic children with upper extremity trauma history had poor somatosensory perception and hand function. It is important to raise awareness among emergency service staff and inform them about strong relationship between somatosensory perception, hand function, and upper extremity trauma in children with ASD in order to develop appropriate rehabilitation process and prevent further trauma.

  7. Kinematic parameters of hand movement during a disparate bimanual movement task in children with unilateral Cerebral Palsy.

    PubMed

    Rudisch, Julian; Butler, Jenny; Izadi, Hooshang; Zielinski, Ingar Marie; Aarts, Pauline; Birtles, Deirdre; Green, Dido

    2016-04-01

    Children with unilateral Cerebral Palsy (uCP) experience problems performing tasks requiring the coordinated use of both hands (bimanual coordination; BC). Additionally, some children with uCP display involuntary symmetrical activation of the opposing hand (mirrored movements). Measures, used to investigate therapy-related improvements focus on the functionality of the affected hand during unimanual or bimanual tasks. None however specifically address spatiotemporal integration of both hands. We explored the kinematics of hand movements during a bimanual task to identify parameters of BC. Thirty-seven children (aged 10.9±2.6years, 20 male) diagnosed with uCP participated. 3D kinematic motion analysis was performed during the task requiring opening of a box with their affected- (AH) or less-affected hand (LAH), and pressing a button inside with the opposite hand. Temporal and spatial components of data were extracted and related to measures of hand function and level of impairment. Total task duration was correlated with the Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function in both conditions (either hand leading with the lid-opening). Spatial accuracy of the LAH when the box was opened with their AH was correlated with outcomes on the Children's Hand Use Experience Questionnaire. Additionally, we found a subgroup of children displaying non-symmetrical movement interference associated with greater movement overlap when their affected hand opened the box. This subgroup also demonstrated decreased use of the affected hand during bimanual tasks. Further investigation of bimanual interference, which goes beyond small scaled symmetrical mirrored movements, is needed to consider its impact on bimanual task performance following early unilateral brain injury. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Effect of neurofeedback and electromyographic-biofeedback therapy on improving hand function in stroke patients.

    PubMed

    Rayegani, S M; Raeissadat, S A; Sedighipour, L; Rezazadeh, I Mohammad; Bahrami, M H; Eliaspour, D; Khosrawi, S

    2014-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of applying electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback (neurobiofeedback) or electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback to conventional occupational therapy (OT) on improving hand function in stroke patients. This study was designed as a preliminary clinical trial. Thirty patients with stroke were entered the study. Hand function was evaluated by Jebsen Hand Function Test pre and post intervention. Patients were allocated to 3 intervention cohorts: (1) OT, (2) OT plus EMG-biofeedback therapy, and (3) OT plus neurofeedback therapy. All patients received 10 sessions of conventional OT. Patients in cohorts 2 and 3 also received EMG-biofeedback and neurofeedback therapy, respectively. EMG-biofeedback therapy was performed to strengthen the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscle. Neurofeedback training was aimed at enhancing sensorimotor rhythm after mental motor imagery. Hand function was improved significantly in the 3 groups. The spectral power density of the sensorimotor rhythm band in the neurofeedback group increased after mental motor imagery. Maximum and mean contraction values of electrical activities of the APB muscle during voluntary contraction increased significantly after EMG-biofeedback training. Patients in the neurofeedback and EMG-biofeedback groups showed hand improvement similar to conventional OT. Further studies are suggested to assign the best protocol for neurofeedback and EMG-biofeedback therapy.

  9. Normative data for hand grip strength and key pinch strength, stratified by age and gender for a multiethnic Asian population.

    PubMed

    Lam, Ngee Wei; Goh, Hui Ting; Kamaruzzaman, Shahrul Bahyah; Chin, Ai-Vyrn; Poi, Philip Jun Hua; Tan, Maw Pin

    2016-10-01

    Hand strength is a good indicator of physical fitness and frailty among the elderly. However, there are no published hand strength references for Malaysians aged > 65 years. This study aimed to establish normative data for hand grip strength (HGS) and key pinch strength (KPS) for Malaysians aged ≥ 60 years, and explore the relationship between hand strength and physical ability. Healthy participants aged ≥ 60 years with no neurological conditions were recruited from rural and urban locations in Malaysia. HGS and KPS were measured using hand grip and key pinch dynamometers. Basic demographic data, anthropometric measures, modified Barthel Index scores and results of the Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) were recorded. 362 subjects aged 60-93 years were recruited. The men were significantly stronger than the women in both HGS and KPS (p < 0.001). The hand strength of the study cohort was lower than that of elderly Western populations. Significant correlations were observed between hand strength, and residential area (p < 0.001), FRT (r = 0.236, p = 0.028), TUG (r = -0.227, p = 0.009) and JTHFT (r = -0.927, p < 0.001). This study established reference ranges for the HGS and KPS of rural and urban elderly Malaysian subpopulations. These will aid the use of hand strength as a screening tool for frailty among elderly persons in Malaysia. Future studies are required to determine the modifiable factors for poor hand strength. Copyright: © Singapore Medical Association

  10. Normative data for hand grip strength and key pinch strength, stratified by age and gender for a multiethnic Asian population

    PubMed Central

    Lam, Ngee Wei; Goh, Hui Ting; Kamaruzzaman, Shahrul Bahyah; Chin, Ai-Vyrn; Poi, Philip Jun Hua; Tan, Maw Pin

    2016-01-01

    INTRODUCTION Hand strength is a good indicator of physical fitness and frailty among the elderly. However, there are no published hand strength references for Malaysians aged > 65 years. This study aimed to establish normative data for hand grip strength (HGS) and key pinch strength (KPS) for Malaysians aged ≥ 60 years, and explore the relationship between hand strength and physical ability. METHODS Healthy participants aged ≥ 60 years with no neurological conditions were recruited from rural and urban locations in Malaysia. HGS and KPS were measured using hand grip and key pinch dynamometers. Basic demographic data, anthropometric measures, modified Barthel Index scores and results of the Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) were recorded. RESULTS 362 subjects aged 60–93 years were recruited. The men were significantly stronger than the women in both HGS and KPS (p < 0.001). The hand strength of the study cohort was lower than that of elderly Western populations. Significant correlations were observed between hand strength, and residential area (p < 0.001), FRT (r = 0.236, p = 0.028), TUG (r = −0.227, p = 0.009) and JTHFT (r = −0.927, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study established reference ranges for the HGS and KPS of rural and urban elderly Malaysian subpopulations. These will aid the use of hand strength as a screening tool for frailty among elderly persons in Malaysia. Future studies are required to determine the modifiable factors for poor hand strength. PMID:26768064

  11. Upper extremity outcome measures for collagen VI-related myopathy and LAMA2-related muscular dystrophy

    PubMed Central

    Bendixen, Roxanna M.; Butrum, Jocelyn; Jain, Mina S.; Parks, Rebecca; Hodsdon, Bonnie; Nichols, Carmel; Hsia, Michelle; Nelson, Leslie; Keller, Katherine C.; McGuire, Michelle; Elliott, Jeffrey S.; Linton, Melody M.; Arveson, Irene C.; Tounkara, Fatou; Vasavada, Ruhi; Harnett, Elizabeth; Punjabi, Monal; Donkervoort, Sandra; Dastgir, Jahannaz; Leach, Meganne E.; Rutkowski, Anne; Waite, Melissa; Collins, James; Bönnemann, Carsten G.; Meilleur, Katherine G.

    2017-01-01

    Purpose Congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD) comprises a rare group of genetic muscle diseases that present at birth or early during infancy. Two common subtypes of CMD are collagen VI-related muscular dystrophy (COL6-RD) and laminin alpha 2-related dystrophy (LAMA2-RD). Traditional outcome measures in CMD include gross motor and mobility assessments, yet significant motor declines underscore the need for valid upper extremity (UE) motor assessments as a clinical endpoint. This study validated a battery of UE measures in these two CMD subtypes for future clinical trials. Methods For this cross-sectional study, 42 participants were assessed over the same 2–5 day period at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC). All UE measures were correlated with the Motor Function Measure 32 (MFM32). The battery of UE assessments included the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST), hand held dynamometry, goniometry, and MyoSet Tools. Spearman Rho was used for correlations to the MFM32. Pearson was performed to correlate the Jebsen, QUEST, hand-held dynamometry, goniometry and the MyoSet Tools. Correlations were considered significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed). Results Significant correlations were found between both the MFM32 and MFM Dimension 3 only (Distal Motor function) and the Jebsen, QUEST, MyoGrip and MyoPinch, elbow flexion/extension ROM and myometry. Additional correlations between the assessments are reported. Conclusions The Jebsen, the Grasp and Dissociated Movements domains of the QUEST, the MyoGrip and the MyoPinch tools, as well as elbow ROM and myometry were determined to be valid and feasible in this population, provided variation in test items, and assessed a range of difficulty in CMD. To move forward, it will be of utmost importance to determine whether these UE measures are reproducible and sensitive to change over time. PMID:28087121

  12. Functional electrical stimulation enhancement of upper extremity functional recovery during stroke rehabilitation: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Alon, Gad; Levitt, Alan F; McCarthy, Patricia A

    2007-01-01

    To test if functional electrical stimulation (FES) can enhance the recovery of upper extremity function during early stroke rehabilitation. Open-label block-randomized trial, begun during inpatient rehabilitation and continued at the patients' home. Patients were assigned to either FES combined with task-specific upper extremity rehabilitation (n = 7) or a control group that received task-specific therapy alone (n = 8) over 12 weeks. Outcome measures . Hand function (Box & Blocks, B & B; Jebsen-Taylor light object lift, J-T) and motor control (modified Fugl-Meyer, mF-M) were video-recorded for both upper extremities at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. B&B mean score at 12 weeks favored (P = .049) the FES group (42.3 +/- 16.6 blocks) over the control group (26.3 +/- 11.0 blocks). The FES group J-T task was 6.7 +/- 2.9 seconds and faster (P = .049) than the 11.8 +/- 5.4 seconds of the control group. Mean mF-M score of the FES group at 12 weeks was 49.3 +/- 5.1 points out of 54, compared to the control group that scored 40.6 +/- 8.2 points (P = .042). All patients regained hand function. Upper extremity task-oriented training that begins soon after stroke that incorporates FES may improve upper extremity functional use in patients with mild/moderate paresis more than task-oriented training without FES.

  13. Hand Robotic Therapy in Children with Hemiparesis: A Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Bishop, Lauri; Gordon, Andrew M; Kim, Heakyung

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this study was to understand the impact of training with a hand robotic device on hand paresis and function in a population of children with hemiparesis. Twelve children with hemiparesis (mean age, 9 [SD, 3.64] years) completed participation in this prospective, experimental, pilot study. Participants underwent clinical assessments at baseline and again 6 weeks later with instructions to not initiate new therapies. After these assessments, participants received 6 weeks of training with a hand robotic device, consisting of 1-hour sessions, 3 times weekly. Assessments were repeated on completion of training. Results showed significant improvements after training on the Assisting Hand Assessment (mean difference, 2.0 Assisting Hand Assessment units; P = 0.011) and on the upper-extremity component of the Fugl-Meyer scale (raw score mean difference, 4.334; P = 0.001). No significant improvements between pretest and posttest were noted on the Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function, the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test, or the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory after intervention. Total active mobility of digits and grip strength also failed to demonstrate significant changes after training. Participants tolerated training with the hand robotic device, and significant improvements in bimanual hand use, as well as impairment-based scales, were noted. Improvements were carried over into bimanual skills during play. Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME CME OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of this article, the reader should be able to: (1) Understand key components of neuroplasticity; (2) Discuss the benefits of robotic therapy in the recovery of hand function in pediatric patients with hemiplegia; and (3) Appropriately incorporate robotic therapy into the treatment plan of pediatric patients with hemiplegia. Advanced ACCREDITATION: The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the

  14. Relationship between output from MIDI-keyboard playing and hand function assessments on affected hand after stroke.

    PubMed

    Chong, Hyun Ju; Han, Soo Jeong; Kim, Yong Jae; Park, Hye Young; Kim, Soo Ji

    2014-01-01

    While a number of studies have tested the therapeutic effectiveness of playing musical instruments, such as the electronic keyboard using Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), it is still unclear whether outcomes of electronic keyboard playing are related to hand function tests. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between MIDI-keyboard playing and hand function tests, including grip strength, Box and Block test (BBT), and Jensen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHF). A total of 66 stroke patients were recruited from medical centers and were classified into acute (n = 21), subacute (n = 28), and chronic (n = 17) recovery stages. The participants' mean age was 60.5 years. The MIDI-keyboard playing protocol based on sequential key pressing was implemented. All hand function tests were performed by certified occupational therapists. MIDI scores from participants at all three recovery stages were significantly correlated with BBT and grip strength. Overall, MIDI-keyboard playing scores demonstrated moderate to high correlations with hand function tests except for participants at the chronic stage and the JTHF, which showed no correlation. These findings suggest that MIDI-keyboard playing has great potential as an assessment tool of hand function, especially hand dexterity in acute and subacute stroke patients. Further studies are needed to refine the specific keyboard playing tasks that increase responsiveness to traditional hand function tests.

  15. Animating Nested Taylor Polynomials to Approximate a Function

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mazzone, Eric F.; Piper, Bruce R.

    2010-01-01

    The way that Taylor polynomials approximate functions can be demonstrated by moving the center point while keeping the degree fixed. These animations are particularly nice when the Taylor polynomials do not intersect and form a nested family. We prove a result that shows when this nesting occurs. The animations can be shown in class or…

  16. The Influence of a Constraint and Bimanual Training Program Using a Variety of Modalities, on Upper Extremity Functions and Gait Parameters Among Children with Hemiparetic Cerebral Palsy: A Case Series.

    PubMed

    Cohen-Holzer, Marilyn; Sorek, Gilad; Schless, Simon; Kerem, Julie; Katz-Leurer, Michal

    2016-01-01

    To assess the influence of an intensive combined constraint and bimanual upper extremity (UE) training program using a variety of modalities including the fitness room and pool, on UE functions as well as the effects of the program on gait parameters among children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy. Ten children ages 6-10 years participated in the program for 2 weeks, 5 days per week for 6 hr each day. Data from the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA) for bimanual function , the Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF) for unimanual function, the six-minute walk test (6MWT), and the temporal-spatial aspects of gait using the GAITRite walkway were collected prior to, immediately post and 3-months post-intervention. A significant improvement was noted in both unimanual as well as bimanual UE performance; A significant improvement in the 6MWT was noted, from a median of 442 meter [range: 294-558] at baseline to 466 [432-592] post intervention and 528 [425-609] after 3 months (p = .03). Combining intensive practice in a variety of modalities, although targeting to the UE is associated with substantial improvement both in the upper as well as in the lower extremity function.

  17. Effects of live and video form action observation training on upper limb function in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.

    PubMed

    Kim, Do Hyun; An, Duk-Hyun; Yoo, Won-Gyu

    2018-04-20

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of live and video form action observation training (AOT) on upper limb (UL) movement acceleration and function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). In total, 12 children (7 boys, 5 girls) with CP participated in this study. The children were allocated randomly to live (experimental) and video (control) AOT groups. All children completed 20 treatment sessions, each 30 minutes in duration, 5 days per week for a month. Mediolateral (ML) and vertical (VT) acceleration data, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function (JTHF) scores, and Box and Block Test (BBT) scores were obtained at baseline and at 4 weeks after the intervention. ML and VT movement acceleration and JTHF scores were significantly lower in the live group (p< 0.05). The BBT score was significantly higher in the live than in the video group (p< 0.05). Our findings suggest that live AOT is more effective than video AOT for improving UL movement acceleration and function. Clinically, our findings offer important insights for clinicians when planning AOT interventions to reduce UL movement acceleration and improve UL function.

  18. Effect of mirror therapy with tDCS on functional recovery of the upper extremity of stroke patients.

    PubMed

    Cho, Hyuk-Shin; Cha, Hyun-Gyu

    2015-04-01

    [Purpose] This study aimed to determine the effect of mirror therapy (MT) with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on the recovery of the upper extremity function of chronic stroke patients. [Subjects] Twenty-seven patients at least 6 months after stroke onset were divided randomly into an experimental group (14 patients) and a control group (13 patients). [Methods] All subjects received tDCS for 20 min followed by a 5 min rest. Then the experimental group received MT while the control group conducted the same exercises as the experimental group using a mirror that did not show the non-paretic upper extremity. The groups performed the same exercises for 20 min. All subjects received this intervention for 45-min three times a week for 6 weeks. [Results] After the intervention, the experimental group showed significant improvements in the box and block test (BBT), grip strength, and the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), and a significant decrease in the Jebsen-Taylor test. The control group showed a significant increase in grip strength after the intervention, and a significant decrease in the Jebsen-Taylor test. Comparison of the result after the intervention revealed that the experimental group showed more significant increases in the BBT and grip strength than the control group. [Conclusion] These results show that MT with tDCS has a positive effect on the functional recovery of the upper extremity of stroke patients, through activating motor regions in the brain, and thus plays an important role in recovery of neuroplasticity.

  19. Relationship between writing skills and visual-motor control in low-vision students.

    PubMed

    Atasavun Uysal, Songül; Aki, Esra

    2012-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between handwriting skills and visual motor control among students with low vision and to compare this with the performance of their normal sighted peers. 42 students with low vision and 26 normal sighted peers participated. The Bruininks-Oseretsky Motor Proficiency Test-Short Form (BOTMP-SF), Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test's writing subtest, and a legibility assessment were administered. Significant differences were found between groups for students' writing speed, legibility, and visual motor control. Visual motor control was correlated both writing speed and legibility. Students with low vision had poorer handwriting performance, with lower legibility and slower writing speed. Writing performance time was related to visual motor control in students with low vision.

  20. Design of a 3D-printed, open-source wrist-driven orthosis for individuals with spinal cord injury

    PubMed Central

    Mukherjee, Gaurav; Peters, Keshia M.; Yamane, Ann; Steele, Katherine M.

    2018-01-01

    Assistive technology, such as wrist-driven orthoses (WDOs), can be used by individuals with spinal cord injury to improve hand function. A lack of innovation and challenges in obtaining WDOs have limited their use. These orthoses can be heavy and uncomfortable for users and also time-consuming for orthotists to fabricate. The goal of this research was to design a WDO with user (N = 3) and orthotist (N = 6) feedback to improve the accessibility, customizability, and function of WDOs by harnessing advancements in 3D-printing. The 3D-printed WDO reduced hands-on assembly time to approximately 1.5 hours and the material costs to $15 compared to current fabrication methods. Varying improvements in users' hand function were observed during functional tests, such as the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test. For example, one participant's ability on the small object task improved by 29 seconds with the WDO, while another participant took 25 seconds longer to complete this task with the WDO. Two users had a significant increase in grasp strength with the WDO (13–122% increase), while the other participant was able to perform a pinching grasp for the first time. The WDO designs are available open-source to increase accessibility and encourage future innovation. PMID:29470557

  1. Mirror movements in unilateral spastic cerebral palsy: Specific negative impact on bimanual activities of daily living.

    PubMed

    Adler, Caroline; Berweck, Steffen; Lidzba, Karen; Becher, Thomas; Staudt, Martin

    2015-09-01

    Mirror movements are involuntary movements of the other hand during voluntary unimanual movements. Some, but not all children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP) show this phenomenon. In this observational study, we investigated whether these mirror movements have a specific negative impact on bimanual activities of daily living. Eighteen children (six girls; age range, 6-16 years; mean age, 12 years 1 month; SD, 3 years 3 month) with USCP, nine with and nine without mirror movements, underwent the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (unimanual capacity) and the Assisting Hand Assessment (bimanual performance). In addition, we measured the time the participants needed for the completion of five activities we had identified as particularly difficult for children with mirror movements. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that mirror movements indeed have a specific negative impact on bimanual performance (Assisting Hand Assessment) and on the time needed for the completion of these five particularly difficult activities. This effect was independent from unimanual capacity. Functional therapies in children with USCP and mirror movements should address this phenomenon. Copyright © 2015 European Paediatric Neurology Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Design and testing of a functional arm orthosis in patients with neuromuscular diseases.

    PubMed

    Rahman, Tariq; Sample, Whitney; Seliktar, Rahamim; Scavina, Mena T; Clark, Alisa L; Moran, Kacy; Alexander, Michael A

    2007-06-01

    The objective of this study was to determine the utility of a passive gravity-balanced arm orthosis, the Wilmington robotic exoskeleton (WREX), for patients with neuromuscular diseases. The WREX, a four-degrees-of-freedom functional orthosis, is energized by rubber bands to eliminate gravity and is attached to the wheelchair. The development and clinical testing of WREX is described in this report. Seventeen patients (14 boys and 3 girls) with muscular disabilities participated in the study. Ages ranged from 4 to 20 years. Criteria for inclusion included a weakened arm, use of a wheelchair, the ability to grasp and release objects, and the ability to provide feedback on device use. Testing consisted of administering the Jebsen test of hand function without WREX and then testing again after approximately two weeks of wearing the WREX orthosis. The timed results of each task within the test then were compared. Specific tasks related to vertical movement required less time to perform with the WREX. A large number of subjects were able to perform the Jebsen tasks with the WREX, where they were unable to perform the task without the WREX. Patients can benefit from WREX because it increases their performance in daily living activities and makes many tasks possible. The range-of-motion in the patients' arms increased considerably, while the time required to complete some of the Jebsen test tasks decreased. Most patients were very receptive to WREX, although a few were ambivalent.

  3. Brain Plasticity following Intensive Bimanual Therapy in Children with Hemiparesis: Preliminary Evidence

    PubMed Central

    Weinstein, Maya; Myers, Vicki; Green, Dido; Schertz, Mitchell; Shiran, Shelly I.; Geva, Ronny; Artzi, Moran; Gordon, Andrew M.; Fattal-Valevski, Aviva; Ben Bashat, Dafna

    2015-01-01

    Neuroplasticity studies examining children with hemiparesis (CH) have focused predominantly on unilateral interventions. CH also have bimanual coordination impairments with bimanual interventions showing benefits. We explored neuroplasticity following hand-arm bimanual intensive therapy (HABIT) of 60 hours in twelve CH (6 females, mean age 11 ± 3.6 y). Serial behavioral evaluations and MR imaging including diffusion tensor (DTI) and functional (fMRI) imaging were performed before, immediately after, and at 6-week follow-up. Manual skills were assessed repeatedly with the Assisting Hand Assessment, Children's Hand Experience Questionnaire, and Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function. Beta values, indicating the level of activation, and lateralization index (LI), indicating the pattern of brain activation, were computed from fMRI. White matter integrity of major fibers was assessed using DTI. 11/12 children showed improvement after intervention in at least one measure, with 8/12 improving on two or more tests. Changes were retained in 6/8 children at follow-up. Beta activation in the affected hemisphere increased at follow-up, and LI increased both after intervention and at follow-up. Correlations between LI and motor function emerged after intervention. Increased white matter integrity was detected in the corpus callosum and corticospinal tract after intervention in about half of the participants. Results provide first evidence for neuroplasticity changes following bimanual intervention in CH. PMID:26640717

  4. Imaging Predictors of Improvement From a Motor Learning-Based Intervention for Children With Unilateral Cerebral Palsy.

    PubMed

    Schertz, Mitchell; Shiran, Shelly I; Myers, Vicki; Weinstein, Maya; Fattal-Valevski, Aviva; Artzi, Moran; Ben Bashat, Dafna; Gordon, Andrew M; Green, Dido

    2016-08-01

    Background Motor-learning interventions may improve hand function in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP) but with inconsistent outcomes across participants. Objective To examine if pre-intervention brain imaging predicts benefit from bimanual intervention. Method Twenty children with UCP with Manual Ability Classification System levels I to III, aged 7-16 years, participated in an intensive bimanual intervention. Assessments included the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA), Jebsen Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF) and Children's Hand Experience Questionnaire (CHEQ) at baseline (T1), completion (T2) and 8-10 weeks post-intervention (T3). Imaging at baseline included conventional structural (radiological score), functional (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Results Improvements were seen across assessments; AHA (P = 0.04), JTTHF (P < .001) and CHEQ (P < 0.001). Radiological score significantly correlated with improvement at T2; AHA (r = .475) and CHEQ (r = .632), but negatively with improvement on unimanual measures at T3 (JTTFH r = -.514). fMRI showed negative correlations between contralesional brain activation when moving the affected hand and AHA improvements (T2: r = -.562, T3: r = -0.479). Fractional Anisotropy in the affected posterior limb of the internal capsule correlated negatively with increased bimanual use on CHEQ at T2 (r = -547) and AHA at T3 (r = -.656). Conclusions Children with greater structural, functional and connective brain damage showed enhanced responses to bimanual intervention. Baseline imaging may identify parameters predicting response to intervention in children with UCP. © The Author(s) 2015.

  5. SKILLED BIMANUAL TRAINING DRIVES MOTOR CORTEX PLASTICITY IN CHILDREN WITH UNILATERAL CEREBRAL PALSY

    PubMed Central

    Friel, Kathleen M.; Kuo, Hsing-Ching; Fuller, Jason; Ferre, Claudio L.; Brandão, Marina; Carmel, Jason B.; Bleyenheuft, Yannick; Gowatsky, Jaimie L.; Stanford, Arielle D.; Rowny, Stefan B.; Luber, Bruce; Bassi, Bruce; Murphy, David LK; Lisanby, Sarah H.; Gordon, Andrew M.

    2015-01-01

    Background Intensive bimanual therapy can improve hand function in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP). We compared the effects of structured bimanual skill training vs. unstructured bimanual practice on motor outcomes and motor map plasticity in children with USCP. Objective We hypothesized that structured skill training would produce greater motor map plasticity than unstructured practice. Methods Twenty children with USCP (average age 9,5; 12 males) received therapy in a day-camp-setting, 6 h/day, 5 days/week, for 3 weeks. In structured skill training (n=10), children performed progressively more difficult movements and practiced functional goals. In unstructured practice (n=10), children engaged in bimanual activities but did not practice skillful movements or functional goals. We used the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA), Jebsen-Taylor test of Hand Function (JTTHF) and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) to measure hand function. We used single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to map the representation of first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) muscles bilaterally. Results Both groups showed significant improvements in bimanual hand use (AHA; p<0.05) and hand dexterity (JTTHF; p<0.001). However, only the structured skill group showed increases in the size of the affected hand motor map and amplitudes of motor evoked potentials (p<0.01). Most children who showed the most functional improvements (COPM) had the largest changes in map size. Conclusions These findings uncover a dichotomy of plasticity: the unstructured practice group improved hand function but did not show changes in motor maps. Skill training is important for driving motor cortex plasticity in children with USCP. PMID:26867559

  6. Sensory stimulation augments the effects of massed practice training in persons with tetraplegia.

    PubMed

    Beekhuizen, Kristina S; Field-Fote, Edelle C

    2008-04-01

    To compare functional changes and cortical neuroplasticity associated with hand and upper extremity use after massed (repetitive task-oriented practice) training, somatosensory stimulation, massed practice training combined with somatosensory stimulation, or no intervention, in persons with chronic incomplete tetraplegia. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups: massed practice training combined with somatosensory peripheral nerve stimulation (MP+SS), somatosensory peripheral nerve stimulation only (SS), massed practice training only (MP), and no intervention (control). University medical school setting. Twenty-four subjects with chronic incomplete tetraplegia. Intervention sessions were 2 hours per session, 5 days a week for 3 weeks. Massed practice training consisted of repetitive practice of functional tasks requiring skilled hand and upper-extremity use. Somatosensory stimulation consisted of median nerve stimulation with intensity set below motor threshold. Pre- and post-testing assessed changes in functional hand use (Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test), functional upper-extremity use (Wolf Motor Function Test), pinch grip strength (key pinch force), sensory function (monofilament testing), and changes in cortical excitation (motor evoked potential threshold). The 3 groups showed significant improvements in hand function after training. The MP+SS and SS groups had significant improvements in upper-extremity function and pinch strength compared with the control group, but only the MP+SS group had a significant change in sensory scores compared with the control group. The MP+SS and MP groups had greater change in threshold measures of cortical excitability. People with chronic incomplete tetraplegia obtain functional benefits from massed practice of task-oriented skills. Somatosensory stimulation appears to be a valuable adjunct to training programs designed to improve hand and upper-extremity function in these subjects.

  7. The compensatory motion of wrist immobilization on thumb and index finger performance--kinematic analysis and clinical implications.

    PubMed

    Liu, Chien-Hsiou; Chiang, Hsin-Yu; Chen, Kun-Hung

    2015-01-01

    Based on the high prevalence of people with problems in the wrist and hand simultaneously, it is of its importance to clarify whether hand joints exert extra motion to compensate for wrist motion while immobilized. This study aimed to measure the compensatory movement of the thumb and index finger when people perform daily activities with an immobilized wrist. Thirty healthy volunteers were recruited in this study. A wrist splint, the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, and the OptoTrak Certus motion tracking system were used. Seven inter-digit mean joint angles of the index finger and thumb were calculated. Paired sample t-test was used. (1) The compensatory motions were noted in the Metacarpophalangeal and Carpometacarpal joints of the thumb, and the proximal interphalangeal joints of the index finger; (2) The manifestation of compensatory motion was related to type of activity performed except when picking up light and heavy cans. The compensatory motions appeared while the wrist was immobilized and were found to be disadvantageous to the progression of disease. In the future, studies need to be done to understand how to select products with correct ergonomic design to enable people to reap greater benefits from wearing wrist splints.

  8. Hand function in workers with hand-arm vibration syndrome.

    PubMed

    Cederlund, R; Isacsson, A; Lundborg, G

    1999-01-01

    Hand-arm vibration syndrome has been specially addressed in the Scandinavian countries in recent years, but the syndrome is still not sufficiently recognized in many countries. The object of this preliminary study was to describe the nature and character of vibration-induced impairment in the hands of exposed workers. Twenty symptomatic male workers (aged 28 to 65 years) subjected to vibration by hand-held tools were interviewed about subjective symptoms and activities of daily living and were assessed with a battery of objective tests for sensibility, dexterity, grip function, and grip strength. The test results were compared with normative data. The majority of patients complained of cold intolerance, numbness, pain, sensory impairment, and difficulties in handling manual tools and in handwriting. The various objective tests showed considerable variation in indications of pathologic outcome, revealing differences in sensitivity to detect impaired hand function. Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing for perception of light touch-deep pressure sensation, the small-object shape identification test, and moving two-point discrimination testing for functional sensibility provided the most indications of pathologic outcomes. The authors conclude that vibration-exposed patients present considerable impairment in hand function.

  9. Self-Grounded Vision: Hand Ownership Modulates Visual Location through Cortical β and γ Oscillations.

    PubMed

    Faivre, Nathan; Dönz, Jonathan; Scandola, Michele; Dhanis, Herberto; Bello Ruiz, Javier; Bernasconi, Fosco; Salomon, Roy; Blanke, Olaf

    2017-01-04

    Vision is known to be shaped by context, defined by environmental and bodily signals. In the Taylor illusion, the size of an afterimage projected on one's hand changes according to proprioceptive signals conveying hand position. Here, we assessed whether the Taylor illusion does not just depend on the physical hand position, but also on bodily self-consciousness as quantified through illusory hand ownership. Relying on the somatic rubber hand illusion, we manipulated hand ownership, such that participants embodied a rubber hand placed next to their own hand. We found that an afterimage projected on the participant's hand drifted depending on illusory ownership between the participants' two hands, showing an implication of self-representation during the Taylor illusion. Oscillatory power analysis of electroencephalographic signals showed that illusory hand ownership was stronger in participants with stronger α suppression over left sensorimotor cortex, whereas the Taylor illusion correlated with higher β/γ power over frontotemporal regions. Higher γ connectivity between left sensorimotor and inferior parietal cortex was also found during illusory hand ownership. These data show that afterimage drifts in the Taylor illusion do not only depend on the physical hand position but also on subjective ownership, which itself is based on the synchrony of somatosensory signals from the two hands. The effect of ownership on afterimage drifts is associated with β/γ power and γ connectivity between frontoparietal regions and the visual cortex. Together, our results suggest that visual percepts are not only influenced by bodily context but are self-grounded, mapped on a self-referential frame. Vision is influenced by the body: in the Taylor illusion, the size of an afterimage projected on one's hand changes according to tactile and proprioceptive signals conveying hand position. Here, we report a new phenomenon revealing that the perception of afterimages depends not only

  10. Taylor Curtis | NREL

    Science.gov Websites

    , The Environmental Law Institute, Washington, D.C. (2014) Featured Publication Curtis, Taylor L., Aaron . Golden, CO: National Renewable Energy Laboratory. NREL/TP-6A20-70098. Levine, Aaron. Taylor L. Curtis . Golden, CO: National Renewable Energy Laboratory: NREL/TP-6A20-70121. Kevin B. Jones, Curtis, Taylor L

  11. Taylor dispersion of colloidal particles in narrow channels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sané, Jimaan; Padding, Johan T.; Louis, Ard A.

    2015-09-01

    We use a mesoscopic particle-based simulation technique to study the classic convection-diffusion problem of Taylor dispersion for colloidal discs in confined flow. When the disc diameter becomes non-negligible compared to the diameter of the pipe, there are important corrections to the original Taylor picture. For example, the colloids can flow more rapidly than the underlying fluid, and their Taylor dispersion coefficient is decreased. For narrow pipes, there are also further hydrodynamic wall effects. The long-time tails in the velocity autocorrelation functions are altered by the Poiseuille flow.

  12. The influence of a constraint and bimanual training program using a variety of modalities on endurance and on the cardiac autonomic regulation system of children with unilateral cerebral palsy: A self-control clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Cohen-Holzer, Marilyn; Sorek, Gilad; Schweizer, Maayan; Katz-Leurer, Michal

    2017-01-01

    An intensive hybrid program, combining constraint with bimanual training, improves upper extremity function as well as walking endurance of children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP). Endurance improvement may be associated with the cardiac autonomic regulation system (CARS) adaptation, known to be impaired among these children. To examine the influence of an intensive hybrid program on CARS, walking endurance and the correlation with upper extremity function of children with UCP. Twenty-four children aged 6-10 years with UCP participated in a hybrid program, 10 days, 6 hours per day. Data were collected pre-, post- and 3-months post-intervention. Main outcome measures included the Polar RS800CX for heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) data, the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) for endurance, and the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA) and Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF) for bimanual and unimanual function. A significant reduction in HR and an increase in HRV at post- and 3-month post-intervention was noted (χ22= 8.3, p = 0.016) along with a significant increase in 6MWT with a median increase of 81 meters (χ22= 11.0, p = 0.004) at the same interval. A significant improvement was noted in unimanual and bimanual performance following the intervention. An intensive hybrid program effectively improved CARS function as well as walking endurance and upper extremity function in children with UCP (213).

  13. Suppressing Taylor vortices in a Taylor-Couette flow system with free surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bouabdallah, A.; Oualli, H.; Mekadem, M.; Gad-El-Hak, M.

    2016-11-01

    Taylor-Couette flows have been extensively investigated due to their many industrial applications, such as catalytic reactors, electrochemistry, photochemistry, biochemistry, and polymerization. Mass transfer applications include extraction, tangential filtration, crystallization, and dialysis. A 3D study is carried out to simulate a Taylor-Couette flow with a rotating and pulsating inner cylinder. We utilize FLUENT to simulate the incompressible flow with a free surface. The study reveals that flow structuring is initiated with the development of an Ekman vortex at low Taylor number, Ta = 0 . 01 . For all encountered flow regimes, the Taylor vortices are systematically inhibited by the pulsatile motion of the inner cylinder. A spectral analysis shows that this pulsatile motion causes a rapid decay of the free surface oscillations, from a periodic wavy movement to a chaotic one, then to a fully turbulent motion. This degenerative free surface behavior is interpreted as the underlying mechanism responsible for the inhibition of the Taylor vortices.

  14. Validity of semi-quantitative scale for brain MRI in unilateral cerebral palsy due to periventricular white matter lesions: Relationship with hand sensorimotor function and structural connectivity

    PubMed Central

    Fiori, Simona; Guzzetta, Andrea; Pannek, Kerstin; Ware, Robert S.; Rossi, Giuseppe; Klingels, Katrijn; Feys, Hilde; Coulthard, Alan; Cioni, Giovanni; Rose, Stephen; Boyd, Roslyn N.

    2015-01-01

    Aim To provide first evidence of construct validity of a semi-quantitative scale for brain structural MRI (sqMRI scale) in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP) secondary to periventricular white matter (PWM) lesions, by examining the relationship with hand sensorimotor function and whole brain structural connectivity. Methods Cross-sectional study of 50 children with UCP due to PWM lesions using 3 T (MRI), diffusion MRI and assessment of hand sensorimotor function. We explored the relationship of lobar, hemispheric and global scores on the sqMRI scale, with fractional anisotropy (FA), as a measure of brain white matter microstructure, and with hand sensorimotor measures (Assisting Hand Assessment, AHA; Jebsen–Taylor Test for Hand Function, JTTHF; Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function, MUUL; stereognosis; 2-point discrimination). Results Lobar and hemispheric scores on the sqMRI scale contralateral to the clinical side of hemiplegia correlated with sensorimotor paretic hand function measures and FA of a number of brain structural connections, including connections of brain areas involved in motor control (postcentral, precentral and paracentral gyri in the parietal lobe). More severe lesions correlated with lower sensorimotor performance, with the posterior limb of internal capsule score being the strongest contributor to impaired hand function. Conclusion The sqMRI scale demonstrates first evidence of construct validity against impaired motor and sensory function measures and brain structural connectivity in a cohort of children with UCP due to PWM lesions. More severe lesions correlated with poorer paretic hand sensorimotor function and impaired structural connectivity in the hemisphere contralateral to the clinical side of hemiplegia. The quantitative structural MRI scoring may be a useful clinical tool for studying brain structure–function relationships but requires further validation in other populations of CP. PMID:26106533

  15. Measuring hand function in the young child.

    PubMed

    Ho, Emily S

    2010-01-01

    Assessing outcomes is vital in any hand therapy practice setting, as it is the primary method of determining whether or not a treatment program is working. In the pediatric population, determining improvements in hand function can be challenging. The author describes using a developmental perspective to evaluate hand function for infants and young children. The utilization of a consistent approach to play along with standard toys is described in this article as a method to evaluate the quality of hand function throughout developmental grasp patterns. Copyright © 2010 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. The Geriatric Hand: Correlation of Hand-Muscle Function and Activity Restriction in Elderly

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Incel, Nurgul Arinci; Sezgin, Melek; As, Ismet; Cimen, Ozlem Bolgen; Sahin, Gunsah

    2009-01-01

    On the basis of the importance of hand manipulation in activities of daily living (ADL), deterioration of hand function because of various factors reduces quality and independence of life of the geriatric population. The aim of this study was to identify age-induced changes in manual function and to quantify the correlations between hand-muscle…

  17. Writing and reading training effects on font type and size preferences by students with low vision.

    PubMed

    Atasavun Uysal, Songül; Düger, Tülin

    2012-06-01

    The effect of writing and reading training on preferred font type and size in low-vision students was evaluated in 35 children. An ophthalmologist confirmed low vision according to ICD-10-CM. Children identified the font type and size they could best read. The writing subtest of the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, read in 1 min., and legibility as measured by the number of readable written letters were used in evaluating the children. A writing and reading treatment program was conducted, beginning with the child's preferred font type and size, for 3 months, 2 days per week, for 45 min. per day at the child's school. Before treatment, the most preferred font type was Verdana; after treatment, the preferred font type and size changed. Students had gained reading and writing speed after training, but their writing legibility was not significantly better. Training might affect the preferred font type and size of students with low vision. Surprisingly, serif and sans-serif fonts were preferred about equally after treatment.

  18. Normalized Movement Quality Measures for Therapeutic Robots Strongly Correlate With Clinical Motor Impairment Measures

    PubMed Central

    Celik, Ozkan; O’Malley, Marcia K.; Boake, Corwin; Levin, Harvey S.; Yozbatiran, Nuray; Reistetter, Timothy A.

    2016-01-01

    In this paper, we analyze the correlations between four clinical measures (Fugl–Meyer upper extremity scale, Motor Activity Log, Action Research Arm Test, and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test) and four robotic measures (smoothness of movement, trajectory error, average number of target hits per minute, and mean tangential speed), used to assess motor recovery. Data were gathered as part of a hybrid robotic and traditional upper extremity rehabilitation program for nine stroke patients. Smoothness of movement and trajectory error, temporally and spatially normalized measures of movement quality defined for point-to-point movements, were found to have significant moderate to strong correlations with all four of the clinical measures. The strong correlations suggest that smoothness of movement and trajectory error may be used to compare outcomes of different rehabilitation protocols and devices effectively, provide improved resolution for tracking patient progress compared to only pre-and post-treatment measurements, enable accurate adaptation of therapy based on patient progress, and deliver immediate and useful feedback to the patient and therapist. PMID:20388607

  19. Changing Course: Thurgood Marshall College Fund President Johnny Taylor Seeks New Partnerships and Avenues of Support for Public HBCUs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stuart, Reginald

    2011-01-01

    When veteran educator Dr. N. Joyce Payne handed the reins of the organization she founded, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, to entertainment lawyer and board member Johnny Taylor, Taylor began pursuing a remake of the prestigious group that has turned it on its head in just a matter of months. Today, with just more than a year of leading the…

  20. Frictional Torque Reduction in Taylor-Couette Flows with Riblet-Textured Rotors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Raayai, Shabnam; McKinley, Gareth

    2017-11-01

    Inspired by the riblets on the denticles of fast swimming shark species, periodic surface microtextures of different shapes have been studied under laminar and turbulent flow conditions to understand their drag reduction mechanism and to offer guides for designing optimized low-friction bio-inspired surfaces. Various reports over the past four decades have suggested that riblet surfaces can reduce the frictional drag force in high Reynolds number laminar and turbulent flow regimes. Here, we investigate the effect of streamwise riblets on torque reduction in steady flow between concentric cylinders, known as Taylor-Couette Flow. Using 3D printed riblet-textured rotors and a custom-built Taylor-Couette cell which can be mounted on a rheometer we measure the torque on the inner rotor as a function of three different dimensionless parameters; the Reynolds number of the flow, the sharpness of the riblets, and the size of the riblets with respect to the scale of the Taylor-Couette cell. Our experimental results in the laminar viscous flow regime show a reduction in torque up to 10% over a wide range of Reynolds numbers, that is a non-monotonic function of the aspect ratio and independent of Re. However, after transition to the Taylor vortex regime, the modification in torque becomes a function of the Reynolds number, while remaining a non-monotonic function of the aspect ratio. Using finite volume modelling of the geometry we discuss the changes in the Taylor-Couette flow in presence of the riblets compared to the case of smooth rotors and the resulting torque reduction as a function of the parameter space defined above.

  1. Taylor-Made Libraries

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lonergan, David

    2011-01-01

    Frederick Winslow Taylor (1856-1915) was an efficiency expert whose concerns were less about avoiding worker fatigue and more about increasing profit margins by any means necessary. Taylor was devoted to finding the One Best Way to carry out a task and then training workers to do that task unvaryingly; attempts by employees to improve their own…

  2. The numerical solution of ordinary differential equations by the Taylor series method

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Silver, A. H.; Sullivan, E.

    1973-01-01

    A programming implementation of the Taylor series method is presented for solving ordinary differential equations. The compiler is written in PL/1, and the target language is FORTRAN IV. The reduction of a differential system to rational form is described along with the procedures required for automatic numerical integration. The Taylor method is compared with two other methods for a number of differential equations. Algorithms using the Taylor method to find the zeroes of a given differential equation and to evaluate partial derivatives are presented. An annotated listing of the PL/1 program which performs the reduction and code generation is given. Listings of the FORTRAN routines used by the Taylor series method are included along with a compilation of all the recurrence formulas used to generate the Taylor coefficients for non-rational functions.

  3. Microbial Energetics Beneath the Taylor Glacier, Antarctica

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mikucki, J. A.; Turchyn, A. V.; Farquhar, J.; Priscu, J. C.; Schrag, D. P.; Pearson, A.

    2007-12-01

    Subglacial microbiology is controlled by glacier hydrology, bedrock lithology, and the preglacial ecosystem. These factors can all affect metabolic function by influencing electron acceptor and donor availability in the subglacial setting leaving biogeochemical signatures that can be used to determine ecosystem processes. Blood Falls, an iron-rich, episodic subglacial outflow from the Taylor Glacier in the McMurdo Dry Valleys Antarctica provides an example of how microbial community structure and function can provide insight into subglacial hydrology. This subglacial outflow contains cryoconcentrated, Pliocene-age seawater salts that pooled in the upper Taylor Valley and was subsequently covered by the advance of the Taylor Glacier. Biogeochemical measurements, culture-based techniques, and genomic analysis were used to characterize microbes and chemistry associated with the subglacial outflow. The isotopic composition of important geochemical substrates (i.e., δ34Ssulfate, Δ33Ssulfate, δ18Osulfate, δ18Owater, Δ14SDIC) were also measured to provide more detail on subglacial microbial energetics. Typically, subglacial systems, when driven to anoxia by the hydrolysis of organic matter, will follow a continuum of redox chemistries utilizing electron acceptors with decreasing reduction potential (e.g., Fe (III), sulfate, CO2). Our data provide no evidence for sulfate reduction below the Taylor Glacier despite high dissolved organic carbon (450 μM C) and measurable metabolic activity. We contend that, in the case of the Taylor Glacier, the in situ bioenergetic reduction potential has been 'short-circuited' at Fe(III)-reduction and excludes sulfate reduction and methanogenesis. Given the length of time that this marine system has been isolated from phototrophic production (~2 Mya) the ability to degrade and consume increasingly recalcitrant organic carbon is likely an important component to the observed redox chemistry. Our work indicates that glacier hydrology

  4. Balancing between sensitization and repression: the role of opium in the life and art of Edgar Allan Poe and Samuel Taylor Coleridge.

    PubMed

    Iszáj, Fruzsina; Demetrovics, Zsolt

    2011-01-01

    The creative process contains both conscious and unconscious work. Therefore, artists have to face their unconscious processes and work with emotional material that is difficult to keep under control in the course of artistic creation. Bringing these contents of consciousness to the surface needs special sensitivity and special control functions while working with them. Considering these mechanisms, psychoactive substance can serve a double function in the case of artists. On the one hand, chemical substances may enhance the artists' sensitivity. On the other hand, they can help moderate the hypersensitivity and repress extreme emotions and burdensome contents of consciousness. The authors posit how the use of opiates could have influenced the life and creative work of Edgar Allan Poe and Samuel Taylor Coleridge.

  5. Improving arm function in chronic stroke: a pilot study of sensory amplitude electrical stimulation via glove electrode during task-specific training.

    PubMed

    Sullivan, Jane; Girardi, Madeline; Hensley, Melissa; Rohaus, Jordan; Schewe, Clay; Whittey, Colby; Hansen, Piper; Muir, Kimberly

    2015-06-01

    To investigate the effects of sensory amplitude electrical stimulation (SES) delivered by glove electrode during task-specific exercise on arm movement, function, and sensation in chronic stroke. The design was an intervention pilot study, pre-test, post-test, follow-up design. The settings used were a university research laboratory and home-based intervention. Participants comprised of 11 individuals with chronic stroke (7.2 ± 4.1 years post onset) and moderate arm paresis, 10.82/20 ± 2.27 on the Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement (STREAM) - Arm Subscale. Participants were seven males and four females (mean age: 59 years). Participants were recruited from university-based database. Intervention- Participants engaged in task-specific training at home for 30 min, twice daily, for 5 weeks, while receiving SES via glove electrode. Participants received supervised task practice at least twice during intervention period for 1 hour. Main outcome measures- Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), STREAM - Arm Subscale, Motor Activity Log-14 (MAL-14) - Amount and Quality Subscales, and Nottingham Stereognosis Assessment (NSA). Significant changes were found in group mean pre- and post-test comparisons on the NSA (P = 0.042), MAL amount subscale (P = 0.047), and JTHFT (with writing item 29 excluded) (P = 0.003) and in pre-test to follow-up comparisons on NSA (P = 0.027) and JTHFT (writing item excluded) (P = 0.009). There was no significant change on the STREAM (P = 1.0). Individuals with a greater baseline motor capacity determined by STREAM scores (P = 0.048) and more recent stroke (P = 0.014) had significantly greater improvements. Combining task-specific training with glove-based SES in chronic stroke resulted in changes in arm sensation and function that were maintained at 3-month follow-up.

  6. A cosmological Slavnov-Taylor identity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Collins, Hael; Holman, R.; Vardanyan, Tereza, E-mail: hcollins@andrew.cmu.edu, E-mail: rh4a@andrew.cmu.edu, E-mail: tvardany@andrew.cmu.edu

    We develop a method for treating the consistency relations of inflation that includes the full time-evolution of the state. This approach relies only on the symmetries of the inflationary setting, in particular a residual conformal symmetry in the spatial part of the metric, along with general properties which hold for any quantum field theory. As a result, the consistency relations that emerge, which are essentially the Slavnov-Taylor identities associated with this residual conformal symmetry, apply very generally: they are true of the full Green's functions, hold largely independently of the particular inflationary model, and can be used for arbitrary states.more » We illustrate these techniques by showing the form assumed by the standard consistency relation between the two and three-point functions for the primordial scalar fluctuations when they are in a Bunch-Davies state. But because we have included the full evolution of the state, this approach works for a general initial state as well and does not need to have assumed that inflation began in the Bunch-Davies state. We explain how the Slavnov-Taylor identity is modified for these more general states.« less

  7. Effects of hyperthyroidism on hand grip strength and function.

    PubMed

    Erkol İnal, Esra; Çarlı, Alparslan Bayram; Çanak, Sultan; Aksu, Oğuzhan; Köroğlu, Banu Kale; Savaş, Serpil

    2015-01-01

    Hyperthyroidism is a pathologic condition in which the body is exposed to excessive amounts of circulating thyroid hormones. Skeletal muscle is one of the major target organs of thyroid hormones. We evaluated hand grip strength and function in patients with overt hyperthyroidism. Fifty-one patients newly diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and 44 healthy controls participated in this study. Age, height, weight, and dominant hand of all participants were recorded. The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism was confirmed by clinical examination and laboratory tests. Hand grip strength was tested at the dominant hand with a Jamar hand dynamometer. The grooved pegboard test (PGT) was used to evaluate hand dexterity. The Duruöz Hand Index (DHI) was used to assess hand function. No significant differences were found in terms of clinical and demographic findings between the patients with hyperthyroidism and healthy controls (p > 0.05). Significant differences were found between the patients with hyperthyroidism and healthy controls regarding PGT and DHI scores (p < 0.05). Hyperthyroidism seemed to affect hand dexterity and function more than hand grip strength and seemed to be associated with reduced physical function more than muscle strength. This may also indicate that patients with hyperthyroidism should be evaluated by multidisplinary modalities.

  8. Taylor Elected to Royal Society of London

    Science.gov Websites

    SLAC, 28 May 1997 Taylor Elected to Royal Society of London Richard Taylor, physics professor at statements must be verified by facts. Taylor will travel to London in the near future for his induction, part Isaac Newton and Michael Faraday. Taylor, a Canadian citizen, received his Ph.D. at Stanford in 1962 and

  9. The evolution of functional hand replacement: From iron prostheses to hand transplantation

    PubMed Central

    Zuo, Kevin J; Olson, Jaret L

    2014-01-01

    The hand is an integral component of the human body, with an incredible spectrum of functionality. In addition to possessing gross and fine motor capabilities essential for physical survival, the hand is fundamental to social conventions, enabling greeting, grooming, artistic expression and syntactical communication. The loss of one or both hands is, thus, a devastating experience, requiring significant psychological support and physical rehabilitation. The majority of hand amputations occur in working-age males, most commonly as a result of work-related trauma or as casualties sustained during combat. For millennia, humans have used state-of-the-art technology to design clever devices to facilitate the reintegration of hand amputees into society. The present article provides a historical overview of the progress in replacing a missing hand, from early iron hands intended primarily for use in battle, to today’s standard body-powered and myoelectric prostheses, to revolutionary advancements in the restoration of sensorimotor control with targeted reinnervation and hand transplantation. PMID:25152647

  10. [Study on an Exoskeleton Hand Function Training Device].

    PubMed

    Hu, Xin; Zhang, Ying; Li, Jicai; Yi, Jinhua; Yu, Hongliu; He, Rongrong

    2016-02-01

    Based on the structure and motion bionic principle of the normal adult fingers, biological characteristics of human hands were analyzed, and a wearable exoskeleton hand function training device for the rehabilitation of stroke patients or patients with hand trauma was designed. This device includes the exoskeleton mechanical structure and the electromyography (EMG) control system. With adjustable mechanism, the device was capable to fit different finger lengths, and by capturing the EMG of the users' contralateral limb, the motion state of the exoskeleton hand was controlled. Then driven by the device, the user's fingers conducting adduction/abduction rehabilitation training was carried out. Finally, the mechanical properties and training effect of the exoskeleton hand were verified through mechanism simulation and the experiments on the experimental prototype of the wearable exoskeleton hand function training device.

  11. Taylor instability in rhyolite lava flows

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Baum, B. A.; Krantz, W. B.; Fink, J. H.; Dickinson, R. E.

    1989-01-01

    A refined Taylor instability model is developed to describe the surface morphology of rhyolite lava flows. The effect of the downslope flow of the lava on the structures resulting from the Taylor instability mechanism is considered. Squire's (1933) transformation is developed for this flow in order to extend the results to three-dimensional modes. This permits assessing why ridges thought to arise from the Taylor instability mechanism are preferentially oriented transverse to the direction of lava flow. Measured diapir and ridge spacings for the Little and Big Glass Mountain rhyolite flows in northern California are used in conjunction with the model in order to explore the implications of the Taylor instability for flow emplacement. The model suggests additional lava flow features that can be measured in order to test whether the Taylor instability mechanism has influenced the flows surface morphology.

  12. Evaluation of a functional hand orthosis combined with electrical stimulation adjunct to arm-hand rehabilitation in subacute stroke patients with a severely to moderately affected hand function.

    PubMed

    Franck, Johan Anton; Smeets, Rob Johannes Elise Marie; Seelen, Henk Alexander Maria

    2018-01-09

    To investigate the usability and effectiveness of a functional hand orthosis, combined with electrical stimulation adjunct to therapy-as-usual, on functional use of the moderately/severely impaired hand in sub-acute stroke patients. Single case experiment (A-B-A'-design) involving eight sub-acute stroke patients. The functional hand orthosis and electrical stimulation were used for six weeks, four days/week, 45'/day. Action_Research_Arm_Test, Intrinsic_Motivation_Inventory. At group level, patients improved 19.2 points (median value) (interquartile range: [8.8, 29.5] points) on the Action_Research_Arm_Test (p = 0.001). After correcting for spontaneous recovery and/or therapy-as-usual effects Action_Research_Arm_Test scores still improved significantly (median: 17.2 points; interquartile range: [5.1, 29.2] points) (p = 0.002). At individual level, six patients had improved as to arm-hand skill performance at follow-up (p < = 0.010). In one patient, arm-hand skill performance improvement did not attain statistical significance. In another patient, no arm-hand skill performance improvement was observed. Average Intrinsic_Motivation_Inventory sub-scores were between 4.6 and 6.3 (maximum: 7), except for 'perceived pressure/tension' (3.3). Sub-acute stroke patients who display only little/modest improvement on their capacity to perform daily activities, seem to benefit from training with a dynamic arm orthosis in combination with electrical stimulation. Patients' perceived intrinsic motivation and sense of self-regulation was high. Implications for rehabilitation Arm-hand training featuring the dynamic hand orthosis in combination with electrical stimulation shows a shift from no dexterity to dexterity. As to the users' experience regarding the dynamic hand orthosis, patients perceive a high-intrinsic motivation and sense of self-regulation. Combining the orthosis with electrical stimulation creates opportunities for a nonfunctional hand towards task

  13. Rayleigh-Taylor mixing in supernova experiments

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Swisher, N. C.; Abarzhi, S. I., E-mail: snezhana.abarzhi@gmail.com; Kuranz, C. C.

    We report a scrupulous analysis of data in supernova experiments that are conducted at high power laser facilities in order to study core-collapse supernova SN1987A. Parameters of the experimental system are properly scaled to investigate the interaction of a blast-wave with helium-hydrogen interface, and the induced Rayleigh-Taylor instability and Rayleigh-Taylor mixing of the denser and lighter fluids with time-dependent acceleration. We analyze all available experimental images of the Rayleigh-Taylor flow in supernova experiments and measure delicate features of the interfacial dynamics. A new scaling is identified for calibration of experimental data to enable their accurate analysis and comparisons. By properlymore » accounting for the imprint of the experimental conditions, the data set size and statistics are substantially increased. New theoretical solutions are reported to describe asymptotic dynamics of Rayleigh-Taylor flow with time-dependent acceleration by applying theoretical analysis that considers symmetries and momentum transport. Good qualitative and quantitative agreement is achieved of the experimental data with the theory and simulations. Our study indicates that in supernova experiments Rayleigh-Taylor flow is in the mixing regime, the interface amplitude contributes substantially to the characteristic length scale for energy dissipation; Rayleigh-Taylor mixing keeps order.« less

  14. Hand2 loss-of-function in Hand1-expressing Cells Reveals Distinct Roles In Epicardial And Coronary Vessel Development

    PubMed Central

    Barnes, Ralston M.; Firulli, Beth A.; VanDusen, Nathan J.; Morikawa, Yuka; Conway, Simon J.; Cserjesi, Peter; Vincentz, Joshua W.; Firulli, Anthony B.

    2011-01-01

    Rationale The bHLH transcription factors Hand1 and Hand2 are essential for embryonic development. Given their requirement for cardiogenesis, it is imperative to determine their impact on cardiovascular function. Objective Deduce the role of Hand2 within the epicardium. Method & Results We engineered a Hand1 allele expressing Cre recombinase. Cardiac Hand1 expression is largely limited to cells of the primary heart field, overlapping little with Hand2 expression. Hand1 is expressed within the septum transversum (ST) and the Hand1-lineage marks the proepicardial organ and epicardium. To examine Hand factor functional overlap, we conditionally deleted Hand2 from Hand1-expressing cells. Hand2 mutants display defective epicardialization and fail to form coronary arteries, coincident with altered ECM deposition and Pdgfr expression. Conclusion These data demonstrate a hierarchal relationship whereby transient Hand1 ST expression defines epicardial precursors that are subsequently dependent upon Hand2 function. PMID:21350214

  15. Home-based nerve stimulation to enhance effects of motor training in patients in the chronic phase after stroke: a proof-of-principle study.

    PubMed

    Dos Santos-Fontes, Renata Laurenti; Ferreiro de Andrade, Karina Nocelo; Sterr, Annette; Conforto, Adriana Bastos

    2013-01-01

    Somatosensory stimulation in the form of repetitive peripheral nerve stimulation (RPSS) is a promising strategy to improve motor function of the upper limb in chronic stroke. Home-based RPSS may be an alternative to hospital-based RPSS. To investigate the feasibility and safety of an innovative program of home-based RPSS combined with motor training and to collect preliminary data on the efficacy of this program to enhance hand motor function in patients in the chronic phase after stroke. Twenty patients were randomized to either active or sham RPSS associated with daily motor training performed at home over 4 consecutive weeks. All the patients were able to perform tasks of the Jebsen-Taylor Test (JTT). The primary outcome measures were feasibility, evaluated by self-reported compliance with the intervention, and safety (adverse events). Secondary outcomes comprised improvements in hand function in the JTT after end of treatment and after a 4-month follow-up period. There were no relevant adverse events. Compliance with RPSS and motor training was significantly greater in the active group than in the sham group. Upper extremity performance improved significantly more in the active group compared with the sham group at the end of treatment. This difference remained significant 4 months later, even when differences in compliance with motor training were considered. Home-based active RPSS associated with motor training was feasible, was safe, and led to long-lasting enhancement of paretic arm performance in the chronic phase after stroke for those who can perform the JTT. These results point to the need for an efficacy trial.

  16. Playing piano can improve upper extremity function after stroke: case studies.

    PubMed

    Villeneuve, Myriam; Lamontagne, Anouk

    2013-01-01

    Music-supported therapy (MST) is an innovative approach that was shown to improve manual dexterity in acute stroke survivors. The feasibility of such intervention in chronic stroke survivors and its longer-term benefits, however, remain unknown. The objective of this pilot study was to estimate the short- and long-term effects of a 3-week piano training program on upper extremity function in persons with chronic stroke. A multiple pre-post sequential design was used, with measurements taken at baseline (week0, week3), prior to (week6) and after the intervention (week9), and at 3-week follow-up (week12). Three persons with stroke participated in the 3-week piano training program that combined structured piano lessons to home practice program. The songs, played on an electronic keyboard, involved all 5 digits of the affected hand and were displayed using a user-friendly MIDI program. After intervention, all the three participants showed improvements in their fine (nine hole peg test) and gross (box and block test) manual dexterity, as well as in the functional use of the upper extremity (Jebsen hand function test). Improvements were maintained at follow-up. These preliminary results support the feasibility of using an MST approach that combines structured lessons to home practice to improve upper extremity function in chronic stroke.

  17. Playing Piano Can Improve Upper Extremity Function after Stroke: Case Studies

    PubMed Central

    Villeneuve, Myriam; Lamontagne, Anouk

    2013-01-01

    Music-supported therapy (MST) is an innovative approach that was shown to improve manual dexterity in acute stroke survivors. The feasibility of such intervention in chronic stroke survivors and its longer-term benefits, however, remain unknown. The objective of this pilot study was to estimate the short- and long-term effects of a 3-week piano training program on upper extremity function in persons with chronic stroke. A multiple pre-post sequential design was used, with measurements taken at baseline (week0, week3), prior to (week6) and after the intervention (week9), and at 3-week follow-up (week12). Three persons with stroke participated in the 3-week piano training program that combined structured piano lessons to home practice program. The songs, played on an electronic keyboard, involved all 5 digits of the affected hand and were displayed using a user-friendly MIDI program. After intervention, all the three participants showed improvements in their fine (nine hole peg test) and gross (box and block test) manual dexterity, as well as in the functional use of the upper extremity (Jebsen hand function test). Improvements were maintained at follow-up. These preliminary results support the feasibility of using an MST approach that combines structured lessons to home practice to improve upper extremity function in chronic stroke. PMID:23533954

  18. Hand Function and Appearance following Reconstruction for Congenital Hand Differences: A Qualitative Analysis of Children and Parents.

    PubMed

    Kelley, Brian P; Franzblau, Lauren E; Chung, Kevin C; Carlozzi, Noelle; Waljee, Jennifer F

    2016-07-01

    Congenital hand differences induce social, psychological, and functional challenges for children. However, little is known about how children perceive their outcomes after reconstructive or what concerns children have. A total of 33 children (aged 6 to 17 years) who were treated for congenital hand differences, and their parents, participated in qualitative, semistructured interviews regarding the child's hand function and appearance. Discussion focused on the influence of congenital hand differences on the child's daily activities, school, and participation in sports and music. The interviews were open format to allow for spontaneous emergence of relevant themes followed by guided questioning. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative coding, iterative comparisons, and frequency analysis to reveal perceptions of children and parents. In this sample, 73 percent of children and parents reported difficulty with hand function. Children experienced difficulties with personal care (58 percent), school activities (30 percent), and household tasks (27 percent). Children were bothered by hand appearance (48 percent), pain (30 percent), and weakness (24 percent). Complex anomalies were associated with greater disability and limitation in sports and music. Children with congenital hand differences are concerned with the aesthetics of their hands and limitations in their ability to perform activities. Children were often discouraged by activities that their peers accomplished easily, but with increasing age demonstrated adaptive behaviors to accommodate in their "own way," suggesting the uniqueness of their limitations. Patients may benefit from early hand therapy guided toward areas of concern to enhance functional adaptation.

  19. 33 CFR 207.170d - Taylor Creek, navigation lock (S-193) across the entrance to Taylor Creek at Lake Okeechobee...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Taylor Creek, navigation lock (S-193) across the entrance to Taylor Creek at Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee, Fla.; use, administration..., DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE NAVIGATION REGULATIONS § 207.170d Taylor Creek, navigation lock...

  20. 33 CFR 207.170d - Taylor Creek, navigation lock (S-193) across the entrance to Taylor Creek at Lake Okeechobee...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Taylor Creek, navigation lock (S-193) across the entrance to Taylor Creek at Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee, Fla.; use, administration..., DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE NAVIGATION REGULATIONS § 207.170d Taylor Creek, navigation lock...

  1. Herringbone streaks in Taylor-Couette turbulence.

    PubMed

    Dong, S

    2008-03-01

    We study near-wall streaks that form herringbonelike patterns in Taylor-Couette turbulence and in counter-rotating Taylor-Couette turbulence through three-dimensional direct numerical simulations. The orientation, axial distribution, onset, and tilting angle of these streaks are characterized.

  2. Hand function with touch screen technology in children with normal hand formation, congenital differences, and neuromuscular disease.

    PubMed

    Shin, David H; Bohn, Deborah K; Agel, Julie; Lindstrom, Katy A; Cronquist, Sara M; Van Heest, Ann E

    2015-05-01

    To measure and compare hand function for children with normal hand development, congenital hand differences (CHD), and neuromuscular disease (NMD) using a function test with touch screen technology designed as an iPhone application. We measured touch screen hand function in 201 children including 113 with normal hand formation, 43 with CHD, and 45 with NMD. The touch screen test was developed on the iOS platform using an Apple iPhone 4. We measured 4 tasks: touching dots on a 3 × 4 grid, dragging shapes, use of the touch screen camera, and typing a line of text. The test takes 60 to 120 seconds and includes a pretest to familiarize the subject with the format. Each task is timed independently and the overall time is recorded. Children with normal hand development took less time to complete all 4 subtests with increasing age. When comparing children with normal hand development with those with CHD or NMD, in children aged less than 5 years we saw minimal differences; those aged 5 to 6 years with CHD took significantly longer total time; those aged 7 to 8 years with NMD took significantly longer total time; those aged 9 to 11 years with CHD took significantly longer total time; and those aged 12 years and older with NMD took significantly longer total time. Touch screen technology has becoming increasingly relevant to hand function in modern society. This study provides standardized age norms and shows that our test discriminates between normal hand development and that in children with CHD or NMD. Diagnostic III. Copyright © 2015 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Structure design for a Two-DoF myoelectric prosthetic hand to realize basic hand functions in ADLs.

    PubMed

    Hoshigawa, Suguru; Jiang, Yinlai; Kato, Ryu; Morishita, Soichiro; Nakamura, Tatsuhiro; Yabuki, Yoshiko; Yokoi, Hiroshi

    2015-01-01

    Prosthetic hands are desired by those who have lost a hand or both hands not only for decoration but also for the functions to help them with their activities of daily living (ADL). Prosthetic robotic hands that are developed to fully realize the function of a human hand are usually too expensive to be economically available, difficult to operate and maintain, or over heavy for longtime wearing. The aim of this study is therefore to develop a simplified prosthetic hand (sim-PH), which is to be controlled by myoelectric signals from the user, to realize the most important grasp motions in ADL by trading off the cost and performance. This paper reports the structure design of a two-DoF sim-PH with two motors to drive the CM joint of the thumb and the interlocked MP joints of the other four fingers. In order to optimize the structure, the model of the sim-PH was proposed based on which 7 sim-PHs with different structural parameters were manufactured and tested in a pick-and-place experiment. Correspondence analysis of the experimental results clarified the relationship between the hand functions and the shapes of fingers.

  4. 33 CFR 117.987 - Taylor Bayou.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Taylor Bayou. 117.987 Section 117.987 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Texas § 117.987 Taylor Bayou. The draws of the Union Pacific...

  5. 33 CFR 117.987 - Taylor Bayou.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Taylor Bayou. 117.987 Section 117.987 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Texas § 117.987 Taylor Bayou. The draws of the Union Pacific...

  6. 33 CFR 117.335 - Taylor Creek.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Taylor Creek. 117.335 Section 117.335 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Florida § 117.335 Taylor Creek. The draw of US441 bridge, mile 0...

  7. 33 CFR 117.335 - Taylor Creek.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Taylor Creek. 117.335 Section 117.335 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Florida § 117.335 Taylor Creek. The draw of US441 bridge, mile 0...

  8. Perspectives on hand function in girls and women with Rett syndrome.

    PubMed

    Downs, Jenny; Parkinson, Stephanie; Ranelli, Sonia; Leonard, Helen; Diener, Pamela; Lotan, Meir

    2014-06-01

    Rett syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that is usually associated with a mutation on the X-linked MECP2 gene. Hand function is particularly affected and we discuss theoretical and practical perspectives for optimising hand function in Rett syndrome. We reviewed the literature pertaining to hand function and stereotypies in Rett syndrome and developed a toolkit for their assessment and treatment. There is little published information on management of hand function in Rett syndrome. We suggest assessment and treatment strategies based on available literature, clinical experience and grounded in theories of motor control and motor learning. Additional studies are needed to determine the best treatments for hand function in Rett syndrome. Meanwhile, clinical needs can be addressed by supplementing the evidence base with an understanding of the complexities of Rett syndrome, clinical experience, environmental enrichment animal studies and theories of motor control and motor learning.

  9. Irregular wall roughness in turbulent Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berghout, Pieter; Zhu, Xiaojue; Verzicco, Roberto; Lohse, Detlef; Stevens, Richard

    2017-11-01

    Many wall bounded flows in nature, engineering and transport are affected by surface roughness. Often, this has adverse effects, e.g. drag increase leading to higher energy costs. A major difficulty is the infinite number of roughness geometries, which makes it impossible to systematically investigate all possibilities. Here we present Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) of turbulent Taylor-Couette flow. We focus on the transitionally rough regime, in which both viscous and pressure forces contribute to the total wall stress. We investigate the effect of the mean roughness height and the effective slope on the roughness function, ΔU+ . Also, we present simulations of varying Ta (Re) numbers for a constant mean roughness height (kmean+). Alongside, we show the behavior of the large scale structures (e.g. plume ejection, Taylor rolls) and flow structures in the vicinity of the wall.

  10. Motor assessment in Parkinson`s disease.

    PubMed

    Opara, Józef; Małecki, Andrzej; Małecka, Elżbieta; Socha, Teresa

    2017-09-21

    Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of most disabling disorders of the central nervous system. The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease: shaking, rigidity, slowness of movement, postural instability and difficulty with walking and gait, are difficult to measure. When disease symptoms become more pronounced, the patient experiences difficulties with hand function and walking, and is prone to falls. Baseline motor impairment and cognitive impairment are probable predictors of more rapid motor decline and disability. An additional difficulty is the variability of the symptoms caused by adverse effects of drugs, especially levodopa. Motor assessment of Parkinson`s Disease can be divided into clinimetrics, assessment of balance and posture, arm and hand function, and gait/walking. These are many clinimetric scales used in Parkinson`s Disease, the most popular being the Hoehn and Yahr stages of progression of the disease and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Balance and posture can be assessed by clinimetric scales like the Berg BS, Tinetti, Brunel BA, and Timed Up and Go Test, or measured by posturometric platforms. Among skill tests, the best known are: the Purdue Pegboard Test, Nine-Hole Peg Test, Jebsen and Taylor test, Pig- Tail Test, Frenchay Arm Test, Action Research Arm Test, Wolf FMT and Finger-Tapping Test. Among motricity scales, the most popular are: the Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment Scale and Södring Motor Evaluation. Gait and walking can also be assessed quantitatively and qualitatively. Recently, the most popular is three-dimensional analysis of movement. This review article presents the current possibilities of motor assessment in Parkinson`s disease.

  11. Tweedie convergence: a mathematical basis for Taylor's power law, 1/f noise, and multifractality.

    PubMed

    Kendal, Wayne S; Jørgensen, Bent

    2011-12-01

    Plants and animals of a given species tend to cluster within their habitats in accordance with a power function between their mean density and the variance. This relationship, Taylor's power law, has been variously explained by ecologists in terms of animal behavior, interspecies interactions, demographic effects, etc., all without consensus. Taylor's law also manifests within a wide range of other biological and physical processes, sometimes being referred to as fluctuation scaling and attributed to effects of the second law of thermodynamics. 1/f noise refers to power spectra that have an approximately inverse dependence on frequency. Like Taylor's law these spectra manifest from a wide range of biological and physical processes, without general agreement as to cause. One contemporary paradigm for 1/f noise has been based on the physics of self-organized criticality. We show here that Taylor's law (when derived from sequential data using the method of expanding bins) implies 1/f noise, and that both phenomena can be explained by a central limit-like effect that establishes the class of Tweedie exponential dispersion models as foci for this convergence. These Tweedie models are probabilistic models characterized by closure under additive and reproductive convolution as well as under scale transformation, and consequently manifest a variance to mean power function. We provide examples of Taylor's law, 1/f noise, and multifractality within the eigenvalue deviations of the Gaussian unitary and orthogonal ensembles, and show that these deviations conform to the Tweedie compound Poisson distribution. The Tweedie convergence theorem provides a unified mathematical explanation for the origin of Taylor's law and 1/f noise applicable to a wide range of biological, physical, and mathematical processes, as well as to multifractality.

  12. String-theoretic deformation of the Parke-Taylor factor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mizera, Sebastian; Zhang, Guojun

    2017-09-01

    Scattering amplitudes in a range of quantum field theories can be computed using the Cachazo-He-Yuan (CHY) formalism. In theories with color ordering, the key ingredient is the so-called Parke-Taylor factor. In this paper we give a fully SL (2 ,C )-covariant definition and study the properties of a new integrand called the "string Parke-Taylor" factor. It has an α' expansion whose leading coefficient is the field-theoretic Parke-Taylor factor. Its main application is that it leads to a CHY formulation of open string tree-level amplitudes. In fact, the definition of the string Parke-Taylor factor was motivated by trying to extend the compact formula for the first α' correction found by He and Zhang, while the main ingredient in its definition is a determinant of a matrix introduced in the context of string theory by Stieberger and Taylor.

  13. Radiographic hand osteoarthritis: patterns and associations with hand pain and function in a community-dwelling sample.

    PubMed

    Marshall, M; van der Windt, D; Nicholls, E; Myers, H; Hay, E; Dziedzic, K

    2009-11-01

    Patterns of radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA) of the hand are often examined by row, with the four joints of the thumb studied inconsistently. The objectives of this study were to determine relationships of ROA at different hand joints, use the findings to define radiographic sub-groups and investigate their associations with pain and function. Sixteen joints in each hand were scored for the presence of ROA in a community-dwelling cohort of adults, 50-years-and-over, with self-reported hand pain or problems. Principal components analysis (PCA) with varimax rotation was used to study patterns of ROA in the hand joints and identify distinct sub-groups. Differences in pain and function between these sub-groups were assessed using Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Index (AUSCAN), Grip Ability Test (GAT) and grip and pinch strength. PCA was undertaken on data from 592 participants and identified four components: distal interphalangeal joints (DIPs), proximal interphalangeal joints (PIPs), metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPs), thumb joints. However, the left thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint cross-loaded with the PIP and thumb groups. On this basis, participants were categorised into four radiographic sub-groups: no osteoarthritis (OA), finger only OA, thumb only OA and combined thumb and finger OA. Statistically significant differences were found between the sub-groups for AUSCAN function, and in women alone for grip and pinch strength. Participants with combined thumb and finger OA had the worst scores. Individual thumb joints can be clustered together as a joint group in ROA. Four radiographic sub-groups of hand OA can be distinguished. Pain and functional difficulties were highest in participants with both thumb and finger OA.

  14. Effect of Virtual Reality-based Bilateral Upper Extremity Training on Upper Extremity Function after Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Lee, Suhyun; Kim, Yumi; Lee, Byoung-Hee

    2016-12-01

    In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of virtual reality-based bilateral upper extremity training (VRBT) on paretic upper limb function and muscle strength in patients with stroke. Eighteen stroke survivors were assigned to either the VRBT group (n = 10) or the bilateral upper limb training group (BT, n = 8). Patients in the VRBT group performed bilateral upper extremity exercises in a virtual reality environment, whereas those in the BT group performed conventional bilateral upper extremity exercises. All training was conducted for 30 minutes day -1 , 3 days a week, for a period of 6 weeks. Patients were assessed for upper extremity function and hand strength. Compared with the BT group, the VRBT group exhibited significant improvements in upper extremity function and muscle strength (p < 0.05) after the 6-week training programme. The Box and Block test results revealed that upper extremity function and elbow flexion in hand strength were significantly improved in terms of group, time and interaction effect of group by time. Furthermore, the VRBT group demonstrated significant improvements in upper extremity function, as measured by the Jebsen Hand Function Test and Grooved Pegboard test, and in the hand strength test, as measured by elbow extension, grip, palmar pinch, lateral pinch and tip pinch, in both time and the interaction effect of group by time. These results suggest that VRBT is a feasible and beneficial means of improving upper extremity function and muscle strength in individuals following stroke. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  15. Taylorism and the Logic of Learning Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stoller, Aaron

    2015-01-01

    This essay examines the shared philosophical foundations of Fredrick W. Taylor's scientific management principles and the contemporary learning outcomes movement (LOM). It analyses the shared philosophical ground between the focal point of Taylor's system--"the task"--and the conceptualization and deployment of "learning…

  16. The Life and Legacy of G. I. Taylor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Batchelor, G. K.

    1996-07-01

    G.I. Taylor, one of the most distinguished physical scientists of this century, used his deep insight and originality to increase our understanding of phenomena such as the turbulent flow of fluids. His interest in the science of fluid flow was not confined to theory; he was one of the early pioneers of aeronautics, and designed a new type of anchor that was inspired by his passion for sailing. Taylor spent most of his working life in the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge, where he investigated the mechanics of fluid and solid materials; his discoveries and ideas have had application throughout mechanical, civil, and chemical engineering, meteorology, oceanography and materials science. He was also a noted research leader, and his group in Cambridge became one of the most productive centers for the study of fluid mechanics. How was Taylor able to be innovative in so many different ways? This interesting and unusual biography helps answer that question. Professor Batchelor, himself a student and close collaborator of Taylor, is ideally placed to describe Taylor's life, achievements and background. He does so without introducing any mathematical details, making this book enjoyable reading for a wide range of people--and especially those whose own interests have brought them into contact with the legacy of Taylor.

  17. Predictive and Reactive Grip Force Responses to Rapid Load Increases in People With Multiple Sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Allgöwer, Kathrin; Kern, Claudia; Hermsdörfer, Joachim

    2017-03-01

    To determine the effects of multiple sclerosis (MS) on predictive and reactive grip force control in a catching task and on clinical tests of hand function. Case-control study with matched-pairs control group. University prevention and rehabilitation center. Participants (N=30) consisted of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) (n=15) and healthy controls (n=15), matched for sex, age, and hand dominance. Not applicable. Performance on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Nine-Hole Peg Test (9-HPT), Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), and 2-point discrimination (2PD) was evaluated. To analyze grip force control, blindfolded subjects held a receptacle equipped with grip force and acceleration sensors in their hand. In a catching task, a weight was dropped from (1) the experimenter's hand unexpectedly into the receptacle (reactive force control); and (2) from the subject's opposite hand (predictive force control). Grip forces and time lags were analyzed. PwMS (mean EDSS ± SD, 4.2±1.86) had impairments in the 9-HPT and JTHFT (P<.001). The 2PD did not differ significantly between PwMS and controls. During reactive force control (catching task 1), PwMS showed significantly higher grip forces immediately after impact (P<.05), and a significant prolongation of the time from grip force increase until reaching the peak of grip force (P<.001). PwMS and controls did not differ during predictive force control (catching task 2; P>.1). Exaggerated grip force responses and alterations of timing after an unpredictable perturbation, combined with preserved grip force control during predictable conditions, is a characteristic pattern of fine motor control deficits in MS. Measures of reactive grip force responses may be used to complement neurologic assessments. Further studies exploring the usefulness of these measures should be performed in a broader community of PwMS. Copyright © 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All

  18. Factors predicting health status and recovery of hand function after hand burns in the second year after hospital discharge.

    PubMed

    Knight, Amber; Wasiak, Jason; Salway, Jacqueline; O'Brien, Lisa

    2017-02-01

    Hands are the most commonly burnt body part given humans' innate response to guard their face from injury, and are known to have detrimental functional and psychological consequences. Conflicting evidence exists regarding the impact of hand burns on long-term health status and global functioning. The objective of this study was to identify patient and clinical characteristics that predict health status and hand function of people at 12-24 months after hand burn. The Burns Specific Health Scale-Brief (BSHS-B) and the Brief Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (Brief MHQ) were administered to community-dwelling adults who were between one and two years after admission to a statewide burns service for burns including one or both hands. Demographic, injury, and treatment data were collected to identify which factors predict health status and hand function in the second year after admission. Linear regression analyses adjusted for total burn surface area and burn depth were conducted to identify important predictors or outcomes. The sample (n=41) was 80.5% male, with a mean age of 44.5 years and total body surface area (TBSA) of 8.4%. Psychiatric illness (regression coefficient -56.6, confidence interval (95% CI) -76.70, -36.49) and female gender (-20.3; 95% CI -0.77, -40.29) were key predictors of poorer global health status on the BSHS-B. Females also scored worse on body image (-5.35; 95% CI -1.83, -8.87) and work (-4.13; 95% CI -0.64, -7.62) domains of BSHS-B. The need for reconstructive or secondary surgery (-38.84; 95% CI -58.04, -19.65) and female gender (-16.30; 95% CI -4.03, -28.57) were important predictors of poorer hand function. Women and those with a history of psychiatric illness are particularly vulnerable to poorer outcomes in health status and/or hand function after burns, and may benefit from more intensive rehabilitation support and long-term follow-up. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

  19. Outcomes and Disability After Massive Proximal Upper Extremity Reconstruction in a Resource-Limited Setting.

    PubMed

    Giladi, Aviram M; Shanmugakrishnan, R Raja; Venkatramani, Hari; Raja Sekaran, S; Chung, Kevin C; Sabapathy, S Raja

    2017-06-01

    At Ganga Hospital in Coimbatore, India, a unique approach is applied to treat massive upper limb injuries. However, long-term outcomes of complex reconstruction performed in the resource-limited setting are not known. This hinders understanding of outcomes and disability from these injuries and prevents systematically addressing care delivery around upper extremity trauma in the developing world. This project aims to analyze the details of the unique Ganga Hospital reconstruction experience and use patient-reported outcome measures for the first time in this patient population to evaluate post-injury recovery and disability . Forty-six patients were evaluated 6 months or more after massive proximal upper extremity reconstruction at Ganga Hospital. Patients completed functional tests, Jebsen-Taylor test (JTT), and patient-reported outcomes (PROs)-Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ), Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), and Short-Form 36 (SF-36). Correlations between metrics were assessed with Pearson's correlation coefficients. Linear regression modeling evaluated associations between severity, reconstruction, and outcomes. MHQ and DASH results correlated with functional test performance, JTT performance, and SF-36 scores (Pearson's coefficients all ≥0.33, p ≤ 0.05). In this cohort, mean MHQ score was 79 ± 15 and mean DASH score was 13 ± 15, which are not significantly different than scores for long-term outcomes after other complex upper extremity procedures. The following factors predicted PROs and functional performance after reconstruction: extent of soft tissue reconstruction, multi-segmental ulna fractures, median nerve injury, and ability for patients to return to work and maintain their job after injury. Complex proximal upper extremity salvage can be performed in the resource-limited setting with excellent long-term functional and patient-reported outcomes. PRO questionnaires are useful for reporting outcomes that correlate

  20. Functional Assessment of Children and Adolescents with Symbrachydactyly: A Unilateral Hand Malformation.

    PubMed

    Goodell, Parker B; Bauer, Andrea S; Oishi, Scott; Arner, Marianne; Laurell, Tobias; Taylor, Sandra L; James, Michelle A

    2017-07-05

    We studied children and adolescents with symbrachydactyly to determine whether hand function depends on digit opposability and whether scores for function and quality-of-life measures differ from population norms. Participants were grouped on the basis of hand morphology: Group A lacked opposable digits, and Group B had ≥2 digits that were opposable. The groups were compared with each other and with norms with respect to pinch strength, the performance of bimanual activities and in-hand manipulation, and questionnaires regarding psychosocial status and the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Participants and parents also rated the appearance and function of the hand. Pinch strength was higher for participants in Group B (4.1 compared with 2.4 kg; p = 0.008), but the groups did not differ with respect to the proportion of participants outside of pinch norms. Participants in Group B were more likely to actively use their affected hand to perform bimanual activities (p ≤ 0.0009), and to use normal or supination strategies to accomplish in-hand manipulation (p = 0.031). The groups did not differ in the proportion of ADLs rated "difficult" or "impossible," and both groups tested within normal limits for psychosocial function. Participants from both groups and their parents rated their satisfaction with hand appearance and function similarly high. Participants with ≥2 opposable digits incorporated their hand better in bimanual activities and used more effective strategies to accomplish in-hand manipulation than those who did not. These groups reported no difference in the ability to perform ADLs or with psychosocial function, which was within the normal range. Children and adolescents with symbrachydactyly demonstrated and reported a high level of function in all domains of validated function tests. This study provides information to help parents of children with a unilateral hand malformation understand their child's potential function, and

  1. Functional study of hands among patients dialysed for more than 10 years.

    PubMed

    Chazot, C; Chazot, I; Charra, B; Terrat, J C; Vanel, T; Calemard, E; Ruffet, M; Laurent, G

    1993-01-01

    Sixty-six haemodialysed (HD) in centre patients (24 h/m2/week, acetate bath, cuprophane membrane), with a mean age of 59.2 years, treated for 16.7 +/- 4.5 years, underwent clinical examination of their hands to determine anatomical and functional alterations. For each hand a functional score was calculated from a medicolegal technique based on sensitivity and angulation amplitude (rating from 0 to 100). Dialysis-related arthropathy (DRA), including carpal-tunnel (CT) syndrome, was scored as well as hand muscle amyotrophia. Trigger fingers, abnormal synovial hypertrophy, and one or more non-functional tendons were found in 15, 26, and 33% of the patients respectively. Thirteen percent had pseudoporphyria. Amyotrophy was moderate or severe in 39%. The global functional score (mean of the two unilateral functional scores) decreased with time spent on haemodialysis and was correlated with the DRA score. The unilateral functional score was linked to tendinous lesions, amyotrophy, and presence of pulses, but not to CT surgery or presence of AV fistula. Hands with ulnar insult at the elbow shown by electromyography had significantly lower functional scores. Repercussions of hand functional alteration may have an important social and psychological impact in daily life. The responsibility of amyloidosis is evidenced by tendinous lesions and nervous entrapment. Ulnar palsy is also important because of the vital motor role of that nerve in hand function.

  2. Rayleigh-Taylor mixing with time-dependent acceleration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abarzhi, Snezhana

    2016-10-01

    We extend the momentum model to describe Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) mixing driven by a time-dependent acceleration. The acceleration is a power-law function of time, similarly to astrophysical and plasma fusion applications. In RT flow the dynamics of a fluid parcel is driven by a balance per unit mass of the rates of momentum gain and loss. We find analytical solutions in the cases of balanced and imbalanced gains and losses, and identify their dependence on the acceleration exponent. The existence is shown of two typical regimes of self-similar RT mixing-acceleration-driven Rayleigh-Taylor-type and dissipation-driven Richtymer-Meshkov-type with the latter being in general non-universal. Possible scenarios are proposed for transitions from the balanced dynamics to the imbalanced self-similar dynamics. Scaling and correlations properties of RT mixing are studied on the basis of dimensional analysis. Departures are outlined of RT dynamics with time-dependent acceleration from canonical cases of homogeneous turbulence as well as blast waves with first and second kind self-similarity. The work is supported by the US National Science Foundation.

  3. Hand function and quality of life before and after fasciectomy for Dupuytren contracture.

    PubMed

    Engstrand, Christina; Krevers, Barbro; Nylander, Göran; Kvist, Joanna

    2014-07-01

    To describe changes in joint motion, sensibility, and scar pliability and to investigate the patients' expectations, self-reported recovery, and satisfaction with hand function, disability, and quality of life after surgery and hand therapy for Dupuytren disease. This prospective cohort study collected measurements before surgery and 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery and hand therapy. Ninety patients with total active extension deficits of 60° or more from Dupuytren contracture were included. Outcomes measures were range of motion; sensibility; scar pliability; self-reported outcomes on expectations, recovery, and satisfaction with hand function; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores; safety and social issues of hand function; physical activity habits; and quality of life with the Euroqol. The extension deficit decreased, and there was a transient decrease in active finger flexion during the first year after surgery. Sensibility remained unaffected. Generally, patients with surgery on multiple fingers had worse scar pliability. The majority of the patients had their expectations met, and at 6 months, 32% considered hand function as fully recovered, and 73% were satisfied with their hand function. Fear of hurting the hand and worry about not trusting the hand function were of greatest concern among safety and social issues. The Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score and the Euroqol improved over time. After surgery and hand therapy, disability decreased independent of single or multiple operated fingers. The total active finger extension improved enough for the patients to reach a functional range of motion despite an impairment of active finger flexion still present 12 months after treatment. Therapeutic IV. Copyright © 2014 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. 76 FR 3570 - Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; Taylor, AZ

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-20

    ...-1189; Airspace Docket No. 10-AWP-19] Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; Taylor, AZ AGENCY: Federal... proposes to modify Class E airspace at Taylor Airport, Taylor, AZ. Controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate aircraft using the CAMBO One Departure Area Navigation (RNAV) out of Taylor Airport. The FAA is...

  5. Nerve Transfers for Improved Hand Function Following Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

    DTIC Science & Technology

    the cervical spine resulting in diminished or complete loss of arm and/or hand function. Cervical SCI patients consistently rank hand function as the...most desired function above bowel and bladder function, sexual function, standing, and pain control. The overall goal of the proposed study is to...evaluate the efficacy of nerve transfers to treat patients with cervical SCIs. Over the last decade, nerve transfers have been used with increasing

  6. Functional sensibility of the hand in leprosy patients.

    PubMed

    van Brakel, W H; Kets, C M; van Leerdam, M E; Khawas, I B; Gurung, K S

    1997-03-01

    The aims of this cross-sectional comparative study was to compare the results of Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing (SWM) and moving 2-point discrimination (M2PD) with four tests of functional sensibility: recognition of objects, discrimination of size and texture and detection of dots. Ninety-eight leprosy in- and outpatients at Green Pastures Hospital in Pokhara, Nepal were tested with each of the above tests and the results were compared to see how well they agreed. Using the tests of functional sensibility as reference points, we examined the validity of the SWM and M2PD as predictors of functional sensibility. There was definite, but only moderate correlation between thresholds of monofilaments and M2PD and functional sensibility of the hand. A normal result with the SWM and/or M2PD had a good predictive value for normal functional sensibility. Sensitivity was reasonable against recognition of objects and discrimination of textures as reference tests (80-90% and 88-93%), but poor against discrimination of size and detection of dots (50-75% and 43-65%). Specificity was high for most combinations of SWM or M2PD with any of the tests of functional sensibility (85-99%). Above a monofilament threshold of 2 g, the predictive value of an abnormal test was 100% for dot detection and 83-92% for textural discrimination. This indicates that impairment of touch sensibility at this level correlates well with loss of dot detection and textural discrimination in patients with leprous neuropathy. For M2PD the pattern was very similar. Above a threshold of 5 mm, 95-100% of affected hands had loss of dot detection and 73-80% had loss of textural discrimination. Monofilament testing and M2PD did not seem suitable as proxy measures of functional sensibility of the hand in leprosy patients. However, a normal threshold with monofilaments and/or M2PD had a good predictive value for normal functional sensibility. Above a monofilament threshold of 2 g and/or a M2PD threshold of 5

  7. Functional Anatomy of Writing with the Dominant Hand

    PubMed Central

    Najee-ullah, Muslimah ‘Ali; Hallett, Mark

    2013-01-01

    While writing performed by any body part is similar in style, indicating a common program, writing with the dominant hand is particularly skilled. We hypothesized that this skill utilizes a special motor network supplementing the motor equivalence areas. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging in 13 normal subjects, we studied nine conditions: writing, zigzagging and tapping, each with the right hand, left hand and right foot. We identified brain regions activated with the right (dominant) hand writing task, exceeding the activation common to right-hand use and the writing program, both identified without right-hand writing itself. Right-hand writing significantly differed from the other tasks. First, we observed stronger activations in the left dorsal prefrontal cortex, left intraparietal sulcus and right cerebellum. Second, the left anterior putamen was required to initiate all the tested tasks, but only showed sustained activation during the right-hand writing condition. Lastly, an exploratory analysis showed clusters in the left ventral premotor cortex and inferior and superior parietal cortices were only significantly active for right-hand writing. The increased activation with right-hand writing cannot be ascribed to increased effort, since this is a well-practiced task much easier to perform than some of the other tasks studied. Because parietal-premotor connections code for particular skills, it would seem that the parietal and premotor regions, together with basal ganglia-sustained activation likely underlie the special skill of handwriting with the dominant hand. PMID:23844132

  8. Functional anatomy of writing with the dominant hand.

    PubMed

    Horovitz, Silvina G; Gallea, Cecile; Najee-Ullah, Muslimah 'ali; Hallett, Mark

    2013-01-01

    While writing performed by any body part is similar in style, indicating a common program, writing with the dominant hand is particularly skilled. We hypothesized that this skill utilizes a special motor network supplementing the motor equivalence areas. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging in 13 normal subjects, we studied nine conditions: writing, zigzagging and tapping, each with the right hand, left hand and right foot. We identified brain regions activated with the right (dominant) hand writing task, exceeding the activation common to right-hand use and the writing program, both identified without right-hand writing itself. Right-hand writing significantly differed from the other tasks. First, we observed stronger activations in the left dorsal prefrontal cortex, left intraparietal sulcus and right cerebellum. Second, the left anterior putamen was required to initiate all the tested tasks, but only showed sustained activation during the right-hand writing condition. Lastly, an exploratory analysis showed clusters in the left ventral premotor cortex and inferior and superior parietal cortices were only significantly active for right-hand writing. The increased activation with right-hand writing cannot be ascribed to increased effort, since this is a well-practiced task much easier to perform than some of the other tasks studied. Because parietal-premotor connections code for particular skills, it would seem that the parietal and premotor regions, together with basal ganglia-sustained activation likely underlie the special skill of handwriting with the dominant hand.

  9. The New Taylorism: Hacking at the Philosophy of the University's End

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Goodman, Robin Truth

    2012-01-01

    This article looks at the critical writings of Mark C. Taylor. It suggests that Mark C. Taylor is rewriting a global imaginary devoid of the kind of citizenship that Henry Giroux claims as the basis for public education. Instead, Taylor wants to see the university take shape as profit-generating. According to Taylor, in lieu of learning to take…

  10. 20. TURNTABLE WITH CABLE CAR BAY & TAYLOR: View ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    20. TURNTABLE WITH CABLE CAR - BAY & TAYLOR: View to northwest of the Bay and Taylor turntable. The gripman and conductor are turning the car around. - San Francisco Cable Railway, Washington & Mason Streets, San Francisco, San Francisco County, CA

  11. 76 FR 18378 - Amendment of Class E Airspace; Taylor, AZ

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-04

    ...-1189; Airspace Docket No. 10-AWP-19] Amendment of Class E Airspace; Taylor, AZ AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: This action will amend Class E airspace at Taylor Airport, Taylor, AZ, to accommodate aircraft using the CAMBO One Departure, and the Area Navigation (RNAV...

  12. Spiral vortices and Taylor vortices in the annulus between rotating cylinders and the effect of an axial flow.

    PubMed

    Hoffmann, Ch; Lücke, M; Pinter, A

    2004-05-01

    We present numerical simulations of vortices that appear via primary bifurcations out of the unstructured circular Couette flow in the Taylor-Couette system with counter rotating as well as with corotating cylinders. The full, time dependent Navier Stokes equations are solved with a combination of a finite difference and a Galerkin method for a fixed axial periodicity length of the vortex patterns and for a finite system of aspect ratio 12 with rigid nonrotating ends in a setup with radius ratio eta=0.5. Differences in structure, dynamics, symmetry properties, bifurcation, and stability behavior between spiral vortices with azimuthal wave numbers M=+/-1 and M=0 Taylor vortices are elucidated and compared in quantitative detail. Simulations in axially periodic systems and in finite systems with stationary rigid ends are compared with experimental spiral data. In a second part of the paper we determine how the above listed properties of the M=-1, 0, and 1 vortex structures are changed by an externally imposed axial through flow with Reynolds numbers in the range -40< or =Re< or =40. Among other things we investigate when left handed or right handed spirals or toroidally closed vortices are preferred.

  13. Effect of task-oriented activities on hand functions, cognitive functions and self-expression of elderly patients with dementia.

    PubMed

    Son, Bo-Young; Bang, Yo-Soon; Hwang, Min-Ji; Oh, Eun-Ju

    2017-08-01

    [Purpose] This study investigates the effects of task-oriented activities on hand function, cognitive function, and self-expression of the elderly with dementia, and then identify the influencing factors on self-expression in sub-factors of dependent variables. [Subjects and Methods] Forty elderly persons were divided into two groups: intervention group (n=20) and control group (n=20). The interventions were applied to the subjects 3 times a week, 50 minutes per each time, for a total of five weeks. We measured the jamar hand dynamometer test for grip strength, the jamar hydraulic pinch gauge test for prehension test, nine-hole pegboard test for coordination test, and Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Population for cognitive function, and self-expression rating scale for self-expression test. [Results] The task-oriented activities promoted hand function, cognitive function (visual perception, spatial perception, visuomotor organization, attention & concentration) and self-expression of the elderly with early dementia, and the factors influencing the self-expression were cognitive function (visual perception) and hand function (coordination). The study showed that the task-oriented program enabled self-expression by improving hand function and cognitive function. [Conclusion] This study suggested that there should be provided the task-oriented program for prevention and treatment of the elderly with early dementia in the clinical settings and it was considered that results have a value as basic data that can be verified relationship of hand function, cognitive function, and self-expression.

  14. Effect of task-oriented activities on hand functions, cognitive functions and self-expression of elderly patients with dementia

    PubMed Central

    Son, Bo-Young; Bang, Yo-Soon; Hwang, Min-Ji; Oh, Eun-Ju

    2017-01-01

    [Purpose] This study investigates the effects of task-oriented activities on hand function, cognitive function, and self-expression of the elderly with dementia, and then identify the influencing factors on self-expression in sub-factors of dependent variables. [Subjects and Methods] Forty elderly persons were divided into two groups: intervention group (n=20) and control group (n=20). The interventions were applied to the subjects 3 times a week, 50 minutes per each time, for a total of five weeks. We measured the jamar hand dynamometer test for grip strength, the jamar hydraulic pinch gauge test for prehension test, nine-hole pegboard test for coordination test, and Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Population for cognitive function, and self-expression rating scale for self-expression test. [Results] The task-oriented activities promoted hand function, cognitive function (visual perception, spatial perception, visuomotor organization, attention & concentration) and self-expression of the elderly with early dementia, and the factors influencing the self-expression were cognitive function (visual perception) and hand function (coordination). The study showed that the task-oriented program enabled self-expression by improving hand function and cognitive function. [Conclusion] This study suggested that there should be provided the task-oriented program for prevention and treatment of the elderly with early dementia in the clinical settings and it was considered that results have a value as basic data that can be verified relationship of hand function, cognitive function, and self-expression. PMID:28878462

  15. The Magnetic Rayleigh-Taylor Instability in Astrophysical Discs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Contopoulos, I.; Kazanas, D.; Papadopoulos, D. B.

    2016-01-01

    This is our first study of the magnetic Rayleigh-Taylor instability at the inner edge of an astrophysical disc around a central back hole. We derive the equations governing small-amplitude oscillations in general relativistic ideal magnetodydrodynamics and obtain a criterion for the onset of the instability. We suggest that static disc configurations where magnetic field is held by the disc material are unstable around a Schwarzschild black hole. On the other hand, we find that such configurations are stabilized by the space-time rotation around a Kerr black hole. We obtain a crude estimate of the maximum amount of poloidal magnetic flux that can be accumulated around the centre, and suggest that it is proportional to the black hole spin. Finally, we discuss the astrophysical implications of our result for the theoretical and observational estimations of the black hole jet power.

  16. Evaluation of kinesthetic sense and hand function in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema.

    PubMed

    Karadibak, Didem; Yavuzsen, Tugba

    2015-06-01

    [Purpose] This study evaluated the functional ability and kinesthetic sense of the hands of women with breast cancer-related lymphedema. [Subjects and Methods] Fifty-seven women experiencing lymphedema after breast surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy were included. The patients were divided into two groups: women with hand edema (HE+, n = 29) and without hand edema (HE-, n = 28) after breast cancer treatment. Arm edema severity, hand size, functional mobility and kinesthetic sense of the hand, and daily living skills were evaluated. [Results] The mean age of the patients was 55.8 years. In both groups, functional mobility, kinesthetic sense, and daily living skills decreased significantly with increasing edema severity. However, there was no significant difference between groups with respect to functional mobility or daily living skills. The kinesthetic sense of the hand was better in the HE- group than the HE+ group. There was a significant negative relationship between the severity of edema and hand function. [Conclusion] Breast cancer-related lymphedema can negatively impact women's functional mobility and kinesthetic sense of the hands as well as daily living skills.

  17. Evaluation of kinesthetic sense and hand function in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema

    PubMed Central

    Karadibak, Didem; Yavuzsen, Tugba

    2015-01-01

    [Purpose] This study evaluated the functional ability and kinesthetic sense of the hands of women with breast cancer-related lymphedema. [Subjects and Methods] Fifty-seven women experiencing lymphedema after breast surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy were included. The patients were divided into two groups: women with hand edema (HE+, n = 29) and without hand edema (HE−, n = 28) after breast cancer treatment. Arm edema severity, hand size, functional mobility and kinesthetic sense of the hand, and daily living skills were evaluated. [Results] The mean age of the patients was 55.8 years. In both groups, functional mobility, kinesthetic sense, and daily living skills decreased significantly with increasing edema severity. However, there was no significant difference between groups with respect to functional mobility or daily living skills. The kinesthetic sense of the hand was better in the HE− group than the HE+ group. There was a significant negative relationship between the severity of edema and hand function. [Conclusion] Breast cancer-related lymphedema can negatively impact women’s functional mobility and kinesthetic sense of the hands as well as daily living skills. PMID:26180295

  18. G.I. Taylor and the Trinity Test

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Deakin, Michael A. B.

    2011-01-01

    The story is often told of the calculation by G.I. Taylor of the yield of the first ever atomic bomb exploded in New Mexico in 1945. It has indeed become a staple of the classroom whenever dimensional analysis is taught. However, while it is true that Taylor succeeded in calculating this figure at a time when it was still classified, most versions…

  19. Rayleigh-Taylor mixing with space-dependent acceleration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abarzhi, Snezhana

    2016-11-01

    We extend the momentum model to describe Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) mixing driven by a space-dependent acceleration. The acceleration is a power-law function of space coordinate, similarly to astrophysical and plasma fusion applications. In RT flow the dynamics of a fluid parcel is driven by a balance per unit mass of the rates of momentum gain and loss. We find analytical solutions in the cases of balanced and imbalanced gains and losses, and identify their dependence on the acceleration exponent. The existence is shown of two typical sub-regimes of self-similar RT mixing - the acceleration-driven Rayleigh-Taylor-type mixing and dissipation-driven Richtymer-Meshkov-type mixing with the latter being in general non-universal. Possible scenarios are proposed for transitions from the balanced dynamics to the imbalanced self-similar dynamics. Scaling and correlations properties of RT mixing are studied on the basis of dimensional analysis. Departures are outlined of RT dynamics with space-dependent acceleration from canonical cases of homogeneous turbulence as well as blast waves with first and second kind self-similarity. The work is supported by the US National Science Foundation.

  20. Integrated versus isolated training of the hemiparetic upper extremity in haptically rendered virtual environments.

    PubMed

    Qiu, Qinyin; Fluet, Gerard G; Saleh, Soha; Lafond, Ian; Merians, Alma S; Adamovich, Sergei V

    2010-01-01

    This paper describes the preliminary results of an ongoing study of the effects of two training approaches on motor function and learning in persons with hemi paresis due to cerebrovascular accidents. Eighteen subjects with chronic stroke performed eight, three-hour sessions of sensorimotor training in haptically renedered environments. Eleven subjects performed training activities that integrated hand and arm movement while another seven subjects performed activities that trained the hand and arm with separately. As a whole, the eighteen subjects made statistically significant improvements in motor function as evidenced by robust improvements in Wolf Motor Function Test times and corresponding improvements in Jebsen Test of Hand Function times. There were no significant between group effects for these tests. However, the two training approaches elicited different patterns and magnitudes of performance improvement that suggest that they may elicit different types of change in motor learning and or control.

  1. Cathedral house & crocker fence, Taylor Street east and north ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    Cathedral house & crocker fence, Taylor Street east and north elevations, perspective view from the northeast - Grace Cathedral, George William Gibbs Memorial Hall, 1051 Taylor Street, San Francisco, San Francisco County, CA

  2. Effect of sensory and motor connectivity on hand function in pediatric hemiplegia.

    PubMed

    Gupta, Disha; Barachant, Alexandre; Gordon, Andrew M; Ferre, Claudio; Kuo, Hsing-Ching; Carmel, Jason B; Friel, Kathleen M

    2017-11-01

    We tested the hypothesis that somatosensory system injury would more strongly affect movement than motor system injury in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (USCP). This hypothesis was based on how somatosensory and corticospinal circuits adapt to injury during development; whereas the motor system can maintain connections to the impaired hand from the uninjured hemisphere, this does not occur in the somatosensory system. As a corollary, cortical injury strongly impairs sensory function, so we hypothesized that cortical lesions would impair hand function more than subcortical lesions. Twenty-four children with unilateral cerebral palsy had physiological and anatomical measures of the motor and somatosensory systems and lesion classification. Motor physiology was performed with transcranial magnetic stimulation and somatosensory physiology with vibration-evoked electroencephalographic potentials. Tractography of the corticospinal tract and the medial lemniscus was performed with diffusion tensor imaging, and lesions were classified by magnetic resonance imaging. Anatomical and physiological results were correlated with measures of hand function using 2 independent statistical methods. Children with disruptions in the somatosensory connectivity and cortical lesions had the most severe upper extremity impairments, particularly somatosensory function. Motor system connectivity was significantly correlated with bimanual function, but not unimanual function or somatosensory function. Both sensory and motor connectivity impact hand function in children with USCP. Somatosensory connectivity could be an important target for recovery of hand function in children with USCP. Ann Neurol 2017;82:766-780. © 2017 American Neurological Association.

  3. 15. TURNTABLE RECONSTRUCTION BAY & TAYLOR: Photocopy of January ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    15. TURNTABLE RECONSTRUCTION - BAY & TAYLOR: Photocopy of January 1941 photograph taken during reconstruction of the Bay and Taylor turntable. View to the south. The 'spider' that carries the actual turntable is in place in the pit. - San Francisco Cable Railway, Washington & Mason Streets, San Francisco, San Francisco County, CA

  4. Linear stability of compressible Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kao, Kai-Hsiung; Chow, Chuen-Yen

    1992-01-01

    A temporal stability analysis of compressible Taylor-Couette flow is presented. The viscous flow studied in this paper is contained between two concentric cylinders of infinite length, which are rotating with different angular velocities and are kept at different surface temperatures. The effects of differential rotation and temperature difference on the stability of Taylor-Couette flow are contrasted for a range of Mach numbers ranging from incompressible to Mach 3.0. The relative motion of the cylinders dramatically affects the characteristics of the Couette flow at the onset of instability. The flow is stabilized or destabilized depending upon the temperature ratio and speeds of the two cylinders. Independent of Mach number and temperature ratio, increasing Reynolds number generally promotes a destabilizing effect, indicating the inviscid nature of the Taylor-Couette flow.

  5. Factors affecting functional recovery after surgery and hand therapy in patients with Dupuytren's disease.

    PubMed

    Engstrand, Christina; Krevers, Barbro; Kvist, Joanna

    2015-01-01

    Prospective cohort study. The evidence of the relationship between functional recovery and impairment after surgery and hand therapy are inconsistent. To explore factors that were most related to functional recovery as measured by DASH in patients with Dupuytren's disease. Eighty-one patients undergoing surgery and hand therapy were consecutively recruited. Functional recovery was measured by the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Explanatory variables: range of motion of the finger joints, five questions regarding safety and social issues of hand function, and health-related quality of life (Euroqol). The three variables "need to take special precautions", "avoid using the hand in social context", and health-related quality of life (EQ-5D index) explained 62.1% of the variance in DASH, where the first variable had the greatest relative effect. Safety and social issues of hand function and quality of life had an evident association with functional recovery. IV. Copyright © 2015 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Taylor's Theorem: The Elusive "c" Is Not So Elusive

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kreminski, Richard

    2010-01-01

    For a suitably nice, real-valued function "f" defined on an open interval containing [a,b], f(b) can be expressed as p[subscript n](b) (the nth Taylor polynomial of f centered at a) plus an error term of the (Lagrange) form f[superscript (n+1)](c)(b-a)[superscript (n+1)]/(n+1)! for some c in (a,b). This article is for those who think that not…

  7. Enhanced motor skill acquisition in the non-dominant upper extremity using intermittent theta burst stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation.

    PubMed

    Butts, Raymond J; Kolar, Melissa B; Newman-Norlund, Roger D

    2014-01-01

    Individuals suffering from motor impairments often require physical therapy (PT) to help improve their level of function. Previous investigations suggest that both intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) and bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may increase the speed and extent of motor learning/relearning. The purpose of the current study was to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel, non-invasive brain stimulation approach that combined an iTBS primer, and bihemispheric stimulation coupled with motor training. We hypothesized that individuals exposed to this novel treatment would make greater functional improvements than individuals undergoing sham stimulation when tested immediately following, 24-h, and 7-days post-training. A total of 26 right-handed, healthy young adults were randomly assigned to either a treatment (n = 15) or control group (n = 12). iTBS (20 trains of 10 pulse triplets each delivered at 80% active motor threshold (AMT) / 50 Hz over 191.84 s) and bihemispheric tDCS (1.0 ma for 20 min) were used as a primer to, and in conjunction with, 20 min of motor training, respectively. Our primary outcome measure was performance on the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function (JTHF) test. Participants tolerated the combined iTBS/bihemispheric stimulation treatment without complaint. While performance gains in the sham and stimulation group were not significant immediately after training, they were nearly significant 24-h post training (p = 0.055), and were significant at 7-days post training (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the combined iTBS/bihemispheric stimulation protocol is both feasible and effective. Future research should examine the mechanistic explanation of this approach as well as the potential of using this approach in clinical populations.

  8. Changes in arm-hand function and arm-hand skill performance in patients after stroke during and after rehabilitation.

    PubMed

    Franck, Johan Anton; Smeets, Rob Johannes Elise Marie; Seelen, Henk Alexander Maria

    2017-01-01

    Arm-hand rehabilitation programs applied in stroke rehabilitation frequently target specific populations and thus are less applicable in heterogeneous patient populations. Besides, changes in arm-hand function (AHF) and arm-hand skill performance (AHSP) during and after a specific and well-described rehabilitation treatment are often not well evaluated. This single-armed prospective cohort study featured three subgroups of stroke patients with either a severely, moderately or mildly impaired AHF. Rehabilitation treatment consisted of a Concise_Arm_and_hand_ Rehabilitation_Approach_in_Stroke (CARAS). Measurements at function and activity level were performed at admission, clinical discharge, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after clinical discharge. Eighty-nine stroke patients (M/F:63/23; mean age:57.6yr (+/-10.6); post-stroke time:29.8 days (+/-20.1)) participated. All patients improved on AHF and arm-hand capacity during and after rehabilitation, except on grip strength in the severely affected subgroup. Largest gains occurred in patients with a moderately affected AHF. As to self-perceived AHSP, on average, all subgroups improved over time. A small percentage of patients declined regarding self-perceived AHSP post-rehabilitation. A majority of stroke patients across the whole arm-hand impairment severity spectrum significantly improved on AHF, arm-hand capacity and self-perceived AHSP. These were maintained up to one year post-rehabilitation. Results may serve as a control condition in future studies.

  9. Fisheries Aspects of Seamounts and Taylor Columns

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-09-01

    the armorhead population. Due to a probable combination of overfishing and poor recruitment, the large fishery of the early 1970’s began a rapid...ACCESSION NO T I TLE (include Security Classification) FISHERIES ASPECTS OF SEAMOUNTS AND TAYLOR COLUMNS 2 PERSONAL AUTHOR(S) Brainard, Russell E. 13a...retention Seamount oceanography Taylor column Fisheries Nutrient enrichment 𔄃 3ASTRACT (Continue on reverse of necessary and identify by block number

  10. Bright and durable field emission source derived from refractory taylor cones

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hirsch, Gregory

    A method of producing field emitters having improved brightness and durability relying on the creation of a liquid Taylor cone from electrically conductive materials having high melting points. The method calls for melting the end of a wire substrate with a focused laser beam, while imposing a high positive potential on the material. The resulting molten Taylor cone is subsequently rapidly quenched by cessation of the laser power. Rapid quenching is facilitated in large part by radiative cooling, resulting in structures having characteristics closely matching that of the original liquid Taylor cone. Frozen Taylor cones thus obtained yield desirable tipmore » end forms for field emission sources in electron beam applications. Regeneration of the frozen Taylor cones in-situ is readily accomplished by repeating the initial formation procedures. The high temperature liquid Taylor cones can also be employed as bright ion sources with chemical elements previously considered impractical to implement.« less

  11. Centrifugally Driven Rayleigh-Taylor Instability

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Scase, Matthew; Hill, Richard

    2017-11-01

    The instability that develops at the interface between two fluids of differing density due to the rapid rotation of the system may be considered as a limit of high-rotation rate Rayleigh-Taylor instability. Previously the authors have considered the effect of rotation on a gravitationally dominated Rayleigh-Taylor instability and have shown that some growth modes of instability may be suppressed completely by the stabilizing effect of rotation (Phys. Rev. Fluids 2:024801, Sci. Rep. 5:11706). Here we consider the case of very high rotation rates and a negligible gravitational field. The initial condition is of a dense inner cylinder of fluid surrounded by a lighter layer of fluid. As the system is rotated about the generating axis of the cylinder, the dense inner fluid moves away from the axis and the familiar bubbles and spikes of Rayleigh-Taylor instability develop at the interface. The system may be thought of as a ``fluid-fluid centrifuge''. By developing a model based on an Orr-Sommerfeld equation, we consider the effects of viscosity, surface tension and interface diffusion on the growth rate and modes of instability. We show that under particular circumstances some modes may be stabilized. School of Mathematical Sciences.

  12. The Role of Cortical Plasticity in Recovery of Function Following Allogeneic Hand Transplantation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-10-01

    transplantation, functional magnetic resonance imaging, hand replantation, cortical reorganization, functional recovery 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: U...functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data suggest that areas of the sensory and motor cortex devoted to representing the hand prior to...function, recovery, functional magnetic resonance imaging 3. Accomplishments Major Goals Achieved: Year Two My lab is relocated to Washington University

  13. On the road to a neuroprosthetic hand: a novel hand grasp orthosis based on functional electrical stimulation.

    PubMed

    Leeb, Robert; Gubler, Miguel; Tavella, Michele; Miller, Heather; Del Millan, Jose R

    2010-01-01

    To patients who have lost the functionality of their hands as a result of a severe spinal cord injury or brain stroke, the development of new techniques for grasping is indispensable for reintegration and independency in daily life. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) of residual muscles can reproduce the most dominant grasping tasks and can be initialized by brain signals. However, due to the very complex hand anatomy and current limitations in FES-technology with surface electrodes, these grasp patterns cannot be smoothly executed. In this paper, we present an adaptable passive hand orthosis which is capable of producing natural and smooth movements when coupled with FES. It evenly synchronizes the grasping movements and applied forces on all fingers, allowing for naturalistic gestures and functional grasps of everyday objects. The orthosis is also equipped with a lock, which allows it to remain in the desired position without the need for long-term stimulation. Furthermore, we quantify improvements offered by the orthosis compare them with natural grasps on healthy subjects.

  14. Neural Patterns of Reorganization after Intensive Robot-Assisted Virtual Reality Therapy and Repetitive Task Practice in Patients with Chronic Stroke

    PubMed Central

    Saleh, Soha; Fluet, Gerard; Qiu, Qinyin; Merians, Alma; Adamovich, Sergei V.; Tunik, Eugene

    2017-01-01

    Several approaches to rehabilitation of the hand following a stroke have emerged over the last two decades. These treatments, including repetitive task practice (RTP), robotically assisted rehabilitation and virtual rehabilitation activities, produce improvements in hand function but have yet to reinstate function to pre-stroke levels—which likely depends on developing the therapies to impact cortical reorganization in a manner that favors or supports recovery. Understanding cortical reorganization that underlies the above interventions is therefore critical to inform how such therapies can be utilized and improved and is the focus of the current investigation. Specifically, we compare neural reorganization elicited in stroke patients participating in two interventions: a hybrid of robot-assisted virtual reality (RAVR) rehabilitation training and a program of RTP training. Ten chronic stroke subjects participated in eight 3-h sessions of RAVR therapy. Another group of nine stroke subjects participated in eight sessions of matched RTP therapy. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were acquired during paretic hand movement, before and after training. We compared the difference between groups and sessions (before and after training) in terms of BOLD intensity, laterality index of activation in sensorimotor areas, and the effective connectivity between ipsilesional motor cortex (iMC), contralesional motor cortex, ipsilesional primary somatosensory cortex (iS1), ipsilesional ventral premotor area (iPMv), and ipsilesional supplementary motor area. Last, we analyzed the relationship between changes in fMRI data and functional improvement measured by the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), in an attempt to identify how neurophysiological changes are related to motor improvement. Subjects in both groups demonstrated motor recovery after training, but fMRI data revealed RAVR-specific changes in neural reorganization patterns. First, BOLD signal in

  15. On power series expansions of the S-resolvent operator and the Taylor formula

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Colombo, Fabrizio; Gantner, Jonathan

    2016-12-01

    The S-functional calculus is based on the theory of slice hyperholomorphic functions and it defines functions of n-tuples of not necessarily commuting operators or of quaternionic operators. This calculus relays on the notion of S-spectrum and of S-resolvent operator. Since most of the properties that hold for the Riesz-Dunford functional calculus extend to the S-functional calculus, it can be considered its non commutative version. In this paper we show that the Taylor formula of the Riesz-Dunford functional calculus can be generalized to the S-functional calculus. The proof is not a trivial extension of the classical case because there are several obstructions due to the non commutativity of the setting in which we work that have to be overcome. To prove the Taylor formula we need to introduce a new series expansion of the S-resolvent operators associated to the sum of two n-tuples of operators. This result is a crucial step in the proof of our main results, but it is also of independent interest because it gives a new series expansion for the S-resolvent operators. This paper is addressed to researchers working in operator theory and in hypercomplex analysis.

  16. Changes in arm-hand function and arm-hand skill performance in patients after stroke during and after rehabilitation

    PubMed Central

    Smeets, Rob Johannes Elise Marie; Seelen, Henk Alexander Maria

    2017-01-01

    Background Arm-hand rehabilitation programs applied in stroke rehabilitation frequently target specific populations and thus are less applicable in heterogeneous patient populations. Besides, changes in arm-hand function (AHF) and arm-hand skill performance (AHSP) during and after a specific and well-described rehabilitation treatment are often not well evaluated. Method This single-armed prospective cohort study featured three subgroups of stroke patients with either a severely, moderately or mildly impaired AHF. Rehabilitation treatment consisted of a Concise_Arm_and_hand_ Rehabilitation_Approach_in_Stroke (CARAS). Measurements at function and activity level were performed at admission, clinical discharge, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after clinical discharge. Results Eighty-nine stroke patients (M/F:63/23; mean age:57.6yr (+/-10.6); post-stroke time:29.8 days (+/-20.1)) participated. All patients improved on AHF and arm-hand capacity during and after rehabilitation, except on grip strength in the severely affected subgroup. Largest gains occurred in patients with a moderately affected AHF. As to self-perceived AHSP, on average, all subgroups improved over time. A small percentage of patients declined regarding self-perceived AHSP post-rehabilitation. Conclusions A majority of stroke patients across the whole arm-hand impairment severity spectrum significantly improved on AHF, arm-hand capacity and self-perceived AHSP. These were maintained up to one year post-rehabilitation. Results may serve as a control condition in future studies. PMID:28614403

  17. [Effects of functional training combined with self-made hand flexing training band in treatment of scar contracture after burn injury of dorsal hand].

    PubMed

    Zhu, C; Yi, N; Shi, M N; Liang, Y Y; Zhou, Y B; Dang, R; Qi, Z S; Zhao, H Y

    2017-07-20

    Objective: To observe the effects of functional training combined with self-made hand flexing training band in treatment of scar contracture after burn injury of dorsal hand. Methods: Forty-six patients with scar contracture after deep partial-thickness or full-thickness burn injury of dorsal hand hospitalized in our department from March 2013 to February 2015 were divided into routine training group (RT, n =18) and comprehensive training group (CT, n =28) according to their willingness. Two weeks after the wounds were healed, patients in group RT were treated with functional training of hands and self-made pressure gloves, while patients in group CT were treated with self-made hand flexing training band (consisting of nylon strap, flexing band, and velcro) on the basis of those in group RT. All patients were treated for 3 months. Before and after treatment, scar condition of affected hands was assessed with Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). The range of motion of joints of affected hands was measured by Total Active Movement (TAM) Scale. The function of affected hands was evaluated by Carroll Upper Extremity Function Test. Data were processed with t test, chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: (1) The score of VSS in patients of group RT was (10.0±1.9) points before treatment and (4.4±1.4) points after treatment, with the improved score of (5.6±1.0) points. The score of VSS in patients of group CT was (10.5±1.8) points before treatment and (4.6±1.4) points after treatment, with the improved score of (5.9±1.2) points. There was no statistically significant difference in the improved score of patients between the two groups ( t =0.834, P >0.05). The score of VSS in patients of groups RT and CT after treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment (with t values respectively 14.014 and 10.003, P values below 0.01). (2) Before treatment, the ratios of excellent and good results according to TAM were 2/9 in patients of group RT and 3/14 in

  18. Clinical effects of non-invasive cerebellar magnetic stimulation treatment combined with neuromotor rehabilitation in traumatic brain injury. A single case study.

    PubMed

    Martino Cinnera, Alex; Bonnì, S; Iosa, M; Ponzo, V; Fusco, A; Caltagirone, Carlo; Koch, Giacomo

    2016-01-01

    Multimodal treatments are emerging as effective approaches for motor recovery in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Various evidence has demonstrated that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may improve outcomes in people with motor disorders. Behavioral gains from rTMS protocols may be maximized when brain stimulation is coupled with carefully designed occupational/physical therapy. We present the case of a 25-year-old man with chronic TBI (a bilateral corticosubcortical parieto-occipital lesion) who underwent three weeks of cerebellar intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a form of rTMS, combined with neurorehabilitation treatment. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, and accelerometer gait analysis were administered before and after treatment. The results showed improvements in balance performance (BBS: T0=47; T1=53; +10.72%), motor recovery (FMA: T0=93/100; T1=96/100; +3.00%), step length (T0=50.4±7.2; T1=53.8±2.2 cm, p<0.001), and walking speed (T0=0.87±0.06; T1=0.91±0.04 m/sec,p<0.001). Combined cerebellar rTMS and neurore-Clinical effects of non-invasive cerebellar magnetic stimulation treatment combined with neuromotor rehabilitation in traumatic brain injury. A single case study. habilitation seems to be a promising treatment for motor and balance dysfunctions in TBI patients.

  19. Assessment of Dry Epidermal Electrodes for Long-Term Electromyography Measurements

    PubMed Central

    Peters, Keshia M.; Milovanovic, Ivana; Kuang, Irene; Yang, Zeyu; Lu, Nanshu; Steele, Katherine M.

    2018-01-01

    Commercially available electrodes can only provide quality surface electromyography (sEMG) measurements for a limited duration due to user discomfort and signal degradation, but in many applications, collecting sEMG data for a full day or longer is desirable to enhance clinical care. Few studies for long-term sEMG have assessed signal quality of electrodes using clinically relevant tests. The goal of this research was to evaluate flexible, gold-based epidermal sensor system (ESS) electrodes for long-term sEMG recordings. We collected sEMG and impedance data from eight subjects from ESS and standard clinical electrodes on upper extremity muscles during maximum voluntary isometric contraction tests, dynamic range of motion tests, the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, and the Box & Block Test. Four additional subjects were recruited to test the stability of ESS signals over four days. Signals from the ESS and traditional electrodes were strongly correlated across tasks. Measures of signal quality, such as signal-to-noise ratio and signal-to-motion ratio, were also similar for both electrodes. Over the four-day trial, no significant decrease in signal quality was observed in the ESS electrodes, suggesting that thin, flexible electrodes may provide a robust tool that does not inhibit movement or irritate the skin for long-term measurements of muscle activity in rehabilitation and other applications. PMID:29677129

  20. On Taylor-Series Approximations of Residual Stress

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pruett, C. David

    1999-01-01

    Although subgrid-scale models of similarity type are insufficiently dissipative for practical applications to large-eddy simulation, in recently published a priori analyses, they perform remarkably well in the sense of correlating highly against exact residual stresses. Here, Taylor-series expansions of residual stress are exploited to explain the observed behavior and "success" of similarity models. Until very recently, little attention has been given to issues related to the convergence of such expansions. Here, we re-express the convergence criterion of Vasilyev [J. Comput. Phys., 146 (1998)] in terms of the transfer function and the wavenumber cutoff of the grid filter.

  1. High Speed Solution of Spacecraft Trajectory Problems Using Taylor Series Integration

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, James R.; Martini, Michael C.

    2008-01-01

    Taylor series integration is implemented in a spacecraft trajectory analysis code-the Spacecraft N-body Analysis Program (SNAP) - and compared with the code s existing eighth-order Runge-Kutta Fehlberg time integration scheme. Nine trajectory problems, including near Earth, lunar, Mars and Europa missions, are analyzed. Head-to-head comparison at five different error tolerances shows that, on average, Taylor series is faster than Runge-Kutta Fehlberg by a factor of 15.8. Results further show that Taylor series has superior convergence properties. Taylor series integration proves that it can provide rapid, highly accurate solutions to spacecraft trajectory problems.

  2. Sensorimotor performance and function in people with osteoarthritis of the hand: A case-control comparison.

    PubMed

    Magni, Nicoló Edoardo; McNair, Peter John; Rice, David Andrew

    2018-04-01

    To determine whether hand left/right judgements, tactile acuity, and body perception are impaired in people with hand OA. To examine the relationships between left right judgements, tactile acuity and hand pain. To explore the relationships between sensorimotor measures (left/right judgements and tactile acuity) and measures of hand function in people with hand OA. Twenty patients with symptomatic hand OA and 19 healthy pain-free controls undertook a hand left/right judgment task, a control left/right judgement task, two-point discrimination (TPD) threshold testing (assessing tactile acuity), a neglect-like symptoms questionnaire (assessing body perception) and several established measures of hand function. Neglect-like symptoms were experienced more frequently in the hand OA group (P < 0.05). People with hand OA were slower (P < 0.05) and less accurate (P < 0.05) in the hand left/right judgement task when compared to healthy controls, with no significant difference in the control task. Significant associations were found between hand left/right judgement reaction time and pain intensity (P < 0.05) and accuracy and pain intensity (P < 0.05). TPD was not different between groups, and no correlation was found between TPD and left/right judgement performance. No association was found between left/right judgement performance and measures of hand function (all P > 0.05). However, TPD (tactile acuity) was related to several measures of hand function (all P < 0.05). People with hand OA had more frequent neglect-like symptoms and were slower and less accurate compared to healthy controls at hand left/right judgments, which was indicative of disrupted working body schema. Future studies may wish to examine whether interventions targeting sensorimotor dysfunction are effective at reducing pain and improving hand function and dexterity in people with hand OA. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Patients with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies are not more asymmetrical than healthy controls on timed performance of upper limb tasks

    PubMed Central

    Artilheiro, M.C.; Sá, C.S.C.; Fávero, F.M.; Caromano, F.A.; Voos, M.C.

    2017-01-01

    This study aimed to investigate possible asymmetries and relationships between performance of dominant and non-dominant upper limbs (UL) in patients with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies (DMD/BMD), to compare UL performance of patients and healthy subjects and to investigate the relationship between timed performance of UL and age, motor function and muscle strength in DMD/BMD patients. Sixteen patients with DMD and 3 with BMD were evaluated with Jebsen-Taylor Test (timed performance), Vignos scale and Dimension 3 of Motor Function Measure (motor function), and Medical Research Council scale (muscle strength) on a single session. ANOVA showed no asymmetry between dominant and non-dominant UL, except in the writing subtest, in patients and in healthy controls. There were relationships between dominant and non-dominant UL performances. Correlations between timed performance, motor function and muscle strength were found, but age was not correlated with these variables. These findings may reduce the assessment time, prevent fatigue and provide more accurate clinical reasoning involving UL in DMD/BMD treatment. PMID:28746422

  4. Techniques for optimizing nanotips derived from frozen taylor cones

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hirsch, Gregory

    Optimization techniques are disclosed for producing sharp and stable tips/nanotips relying on liquid Taylor cones created from electrically conductive materials with high melting points. A wire substrate of such a material with a preform end in the shape of a regular or concave cone, is first melted with a focused laser beam. Under the influence of a high positive potential, a Taylor cone in a liquid/molten state is formed at that end. The cone is then quenched upon cessation of the laser power, thus freezing the Taylor cone. The tip of the frozen Taylor cone is reheated by the lasermore » to allow its precise localized melting and shaping. Tips thus obtained yield desirable end-forms suitable as electron field emission sources for a variety of applications. In-situ regeneration of the tip is readily accomplished. These tips can also be employed as regenerable bright ion sources using field ionization/desorption of introduced chemical species.« less

  5. Dynamic stabilization of classical Rayleigh-Taylor instability

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Piriz, A. R.; Piriz, S. A.; Tahir, N. A.

    2011-09-15

    Dynamic stabilization of classical Rayleigh-Taylor instability is studied by modeling the interface vibration with the simplest possible wave form, namely, a sequence of Dirac deltas. As expected, stabilization results to be impossible. However, in contradiction to previously reported results obtained with a sinusoidal driving, it is found that in general the perturbation amplitude is larger than in the classical case. Therefore, no beneficial effect can be obtained from the vertical vibration of a Rayleigh-Taylor unstable interface between two ideal fluids.

  6. Translation, cultural adaptation and reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire for Brazil

    PubMed Central

    Chiari, Aline; de Souza Sardim, Carla Caires; Natour, Jamil

    2011-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To translate, to perform a cultural adaptation of and to test the reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire for Brazil. METHODS: First, the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire was translated into Portuguese and was then back-translated into French. These translations were reviewed by a committee to establish a Brazilian version of the questionnaire to be tested. The validity and reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire was evaluated. Patients of both sexes, who were aged 18 to 60 years and presented with rheumatoid arthritis affecting their hands, were interviewed. The patients were initially interviewed by two observers and were later interviewed by a single rater. First, the Visual Analogue Scale for hand pain, the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Disability questionnaire and the Health Assessment Questionnaire were administered. The third administration of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale was performed fifteen days after the first administration. Ninety patients were assessed in the present study. RESULTS: Two questions were modified as a result of the assessment of cultural equivalence. The Cronbach's alpha value for this assessment was 0.93. The intraclass intraobserver and interobserver correlation coefficients were 0.76 and 0.96, respectively. The Spearman's coefficient indicated that there was a low level of correlation between the Cochin Hand Functional Scale and the Visual Analogue Scale for pain (0.46) and that there was a moderate level of correlation of the Cochin Scale with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (0.66) and with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (0.63). The average administration time for the Cochin Scale was three minutes. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale was successfully translated and adapted, and this version exhibited good internal consistency, reliability and construct validity. PMID:21789372

  7. Fluid-structure interaction in Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kempf, Martin Horst Willi

    1998-10-01

    The linear stability of a viscous fluid between two concentric, rotating cylinders is considered. The inner cylinder is a rigid boundary and the outer cylinder has an elastic layer exposed to the fluid. The subject is motivated by flow between two adjoining rollers in a printing press. The governing equations of the fluid layer are the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations, and the governing equations of the elastic layer are Navier's equations. A narrow gap, neutral stability, and axisymmetric disturbances are assumed. The solution involves a novel technique for treating two layer stability problems, where an exact solution in the elastic layer is used to isolate the problem in the fluid layer. The results show that the presence of the elastic layer has only a slight effect on the critical Taylor numbers for the elastic parameters of modern printing presses. However, there are parameter values where the critical Taylor number is dramatically different than the classical Taylor-Couette problem.

  8. Approximate Expressions for the Period of a Simple Pendulum Using a Taylor Series Expansion

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Belendez, Augusto; Arribas, Enrique; Marquez, Andres; Ortuno, Manuel; Gallego, Sergi

    2011-01-01

    An approximate scheme for obtaining the period of a simple pendulum for large-amplitude oscillations is analysed and discussed. When students express the exact frequency or the period of a simple pendulum as a function of the oscillation amplitude, and they are told to expand this function in a Taylor series, they always do so using the…

  9. [Tests of hand functionality in upper limb amputation with prosthesis].

    PubMed

    Bazzini, G; Orlandini, D; Moscato, T A; Nicita, D; Panigazzi, M

    2007-01-01

    The need for standardized instruments for clinical measurements has become pressing in the fields of occupational rehabilitation and ergonomics. This is particularly the case for instruments that allow a quantitative evaluation of upper limb function, and especially hand function in patients who have undergone an amputation and then application of an upper limb prosthesis. This study presents a review of the main tests used to evaluate hand function, with a critical analysis of their use in subjects with an upper limb prosthesis. The tests are divided into: tests to evaluate strength, tests to evaluate co-ordination and dexterity, tests of global or overall function, and tests proposed specifically for subjects with an upper limb prosthesis. Of the various tests presented, the authors give their preference to the Bimanual Functional Assessment, Abilhand and/or the ADL Questionnaire, because of the practical usefulness, clinimetric features, simplicity and ease of administration of these tests.

  10. PREFACE: The 15th International Couette-Taylor Worskhop

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mutabazi, Innocent; Crumeyrolle, Olivier

    2008-07-01

    The 15th International Couette-Taylor Worskhop (ICTW15) was held in Le Havre, France from 9-12 July 2007. This regular international conference started in 1979 in Leeds, UK when the research interest in simple models of fluid flows was revitalized by systematic investigation of Rayleigh-Bénard convection and the Couette-Taylor flow. These two flow systems are good prototypes for the study of the transition to chaos and turbulence in closed flows. The workshop themes have been expanded from the original Couette-Taylor flow to include other centrifugal instabilities (Dean, Görtler, Taylor-Dean), spherical Couette flows, thermal convection instabilities, MHD, nonlinear dynamics and chaos, transition to turbulence, development of numerical and experimental techniques. The impressive longevity of the ICTW is due to the close interaction and fertile exchanges between international research groups from different disciplines: Physics and Astrophysics, Applied Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering. The present workshop was attended by 100 participants, the program included over 83 contributions with 4 plenary lectures, 68 oral communications and 17 posters. The topics include, besides the classical Couette-Taylor flows, the centrifugal flows with longitudinal vortices, the shear flows, the thermal convection in curved geometries, the spherical Couette-Taylor flow, the geophysical flows, the magneto-hydrodynamic effects including the dynamo effect, the complex flows (viscoelasticity, immiscible fluids, bubbles and migration). Selected papers have been processed through the peer review system and are published in this issue of the Journal of Physics: Conference Series. The Workshop has been sponsored by Le Havre University, the Region Council of Haute-Normandie, Le Havre City Council, CNRS (ST2I, GdR-DYCOEC), and the European Space Agency through GEOFLOW program. The French Ministry of Defense (DGA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of

  11. Relation between hand function and gross motor function in full term infants aged 4 to 8 months.

    PubMed

    Nogueira, Solange F; Figueiredo, Elyonara M; Gonçalves, Rejane V; Mancini, Marisa C

    2015-01-01

    In children, reaching emerges around four months of age, which is followed by rapid changes in hand function and concomitant changes in gross motor function, including the acquisition of independent sitting. Although there is a close functional relationship between these domains, to date they have been investigated separately. To investigate the longitudinal profile of changes and the relationship between the development of hand function (i.e. reaching for and manipulating an object) and gross motor function in 13 normally developing children born at term who were evaluated every 15 days from 4 to 8 months of age. The number of reaches and the period (i.e. time) of manipulation to an object were extracted from video synchronized with the Qualisys(r) movement analysis system. Gross motor function was measured using the Alberta Infant Motor Scale. ANOVA for repeated measures was used to test the effect of age on the number of reaches, the time of manipulation and gross motor function. Hierarchical regression models were used to test the associations of reaching and manipulation with gross motor function. RESULTS revealed a significant increase in the number of reaches (p<0.001), the time of manipulation (p<0.001) and gross motor function (p<0.001) over time, as well as associations between reaching and gross motor function (R2=0.84; p<0.001) and manipulation and gross motor function (R2=0.13; p=0.02) from 4 to 6 months of age. Associations from 6 to 8 months of age were not significant. The relationship between hand function and gross motor function was not constant, and the age span from 4 to 6 months was a critical period of interdependency of hand function and gross motor function development.

  12. Relation between hand function and gross motor function in full term infants aged 4 to 8 months

    PubMed Central

    Nogueira, Solange F.; Figueiredo, Elyonara M.; Gonçalves, Rejane V.; Mancini, Marisa C.

    2015-01-01

    Background: In children, reaching emerges around four months of age, which is followed by rapid changes in hand function and concomitant changes in gross motor function, including the acquisition of independent sitting. Although there is a close functional relationship between these domains, to date they have been investigated separately. Objective: To investigate the longitudinal profile of changes and the relationship between the development of hand function (i.e. reaching for and manipulating an object) and gross motor function in 13 normally developing children born at term who were evaluated every 15 days from 4 to 8 months of age. Method: The number of reaches and the period (i.e. time) of manipulation to an object were extracted from video synchronized with the Qualisys(r) movement analysis system. Gross motor function was measured using the Alberta Infant Motor Scale. ANOVA for repeated measures was used to test the effect of age on the number of reaches, the time of manipulation and gross motor function. Hierarchical regression models were used to test the associations of reaching and manipulation with gross motor function. Results: Results revealed a significant increase in the number of reaches (p<0.001), the time of manipulation (p<0.001) and gross motor function (p<0.001) over time, as well as associations between reaching and gross motor function (R2=0.84; p<0.001) and manipulation and gross motor function (R2=0.13; p=0.02) from 4 to 6 months of age. Associations from 6 to 8 months of age were not significant. Conclusion: The relationship between hand function and gross motor function was not constant, and the age span from 4 to 6 months was a critical period of interdependency of hand function and gross motor function development. PMID:25714437

  13. DSM-5 and ADHD - an interview with Eric Taylor.

    PubMed

    Taylor, Eric

    2013-09-12

    In this podcast we talk to Prof Eric Taylor about the changes to the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in DSM-5 and how these changes will affect clinical practice. The podcast for this interview is available at: http://www.biomedcentral.com/sites/2999/download/Taylor.mp3.

  14. A litmus test for exploitation: James Stacey Taylor's stakes and kidneys.

    PubMed

    Kuntz, J R

    2009-12-01

    James Stacy Taylor advances a thorough argument for the legalization of markets in current (live) human kidneys. The market is seemly the most abhorrent type of market, a market where the least well-off sell part of their body to the most well off. Though rigorously defended overall, his arguments concerning exploitation are thin. I examine a number of prominent bioethicists' account of exploitation: most importantly, Ruth Sample's exploitation as degradation. I do so in the context of Taylor's argument, with the aim of buttressing Taylor's position that a regulated kidney market is morally allowable. I argue that Sample fails to provide normative grounds consistent with her claim that exploitation is wrong. I then reformulate her account for consistency and plausibility. Still, this seemingly more plausible view does not show that Taylor's regulated kidney market is prohibitively exploitative of impoverished persons. I tack into place one more piece of support for Taylor's conclusion. (wc. 148).

  15. Jupiter's great red spot revisited. [validity of Taylor column theory

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hide, R.

    1972-01-01

    On the original Taylor column theory of Jupiter's Great Red Spot, the fixed latitude of the Spot is taken to imply that the Taylor column in Jupiter's atmosphere is associated with a disturbance such as a topographic feature of the surface Q underlying the atmosphere. The alternative suggestion that the Taylor column is produced by a solid raft floating at depth in the atmosphere is somewhat easier to reconcile with the approximately 10s difference between the respective rotation periods P sub S and P sub R of the Red Spot and of the radio sources, but it does not account so readily for the fixed latitude of the Spot unless it can be shown that the raft is in stable equilibrium under the north-south components of the dynamical forces, including wind effects, acting upon it. A slight wavering of the upper end of the Taylor column relative to the lower end could account at least in part for the most rapid variations in P sub S, but the slow large-amplitude variations in P sub S must reflect changes in the longitudinal motion of either the surface Q or of the raft. By generalizing the Proudman-Taylor theorem to the case of a non-homogeneous fluid it is shown that the Taylor column theory does not imply very special and therefore unlikely horizontal and vertical temperature variations in Jupiter's atmosphere, thus refuting a widely-held belief to the contrary.

  16. Abnormally reduced primary motor cortex output is related to impaired hand function in chronic stroke.

    PubMed

    Buetefisch, Cathrin M; Pirog Revill, Kathleen; Haut, Marc W; Kowalski, Greg M; Wischnewski, Miles; Pifer, Marissa; Belagaje, Samir R; Nahab, Fadi; Cobia, Derin J; Hu, Xiaoping; Drake, Daniel; Hobbs, Gerald

    2018-06-20

    Stroke often involves primary motor cortex (M1) and its corticospinal projections (CST). As hand function is critically dependent on these structures, its recovery is often incomplete. The neuronal substrate supporting affected hand function is not well understood but likely involves reorganized M1 and CST of the lesioned hemisphere (M1 IL and CST IL ). We hypothesized that affected hand function in chronic stroke is related to structural and functional reorganization of M1 IL and CST IL . We tested 18 patients with chronic ischemic stroke involving M1 or CST. Their hand function was compared to 18 age matched healthy subjects. M1 IL thickness and CST IL fractional anisotropy (FA) were determined with MRI and compared to measures of the other hemisphere. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was applied to M1 IL to determine its input output function (stimulus response curve, SRC). The plateau of the SRC (MEPmax), inflection point and slope parameters of the curve were extracted. Results were compared to measures in 12 age matched healthy controls. MEPmax of M1 IL was significantly smaller (p=0.02) in the patients, indicating reduced CST IL motor output, and was correlated with impaired hand function (p=0.02). M1 IL thickness (p<0.01) and CST IL -FA (p<0.01) were reduced but did not correlate with hand function. The results indicate that employed M1 IL or CST IL structural measures do not explain the extent of impairment in hand function once M1 and CST are sufficiently functional for TMS to evoke a motor potential. Instead, impairment of hand function is best explained by the abnormally low output from M1 IL .

  17. G.I. Taylor and the Trinity test

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deakin, Michael A. B.

    2011-12-01

    The story is often told of the calculation by G.I. Taylor of the yield of the first ever atomic bomb exploded in New Mexico in 1945. It has indeed become a staple of the classroom whenever dimensional analysis is taught. However, while it is true that Taylor succeeded in calculating this figure at a time when it was still classified, most versions of the story are quite inaccurate historically. The reality is more complex than the usual accounts have it. This article sets out to disentangle fact from fiction.

  18. Distribution of glacial deposits, soils, and permafrost in Taylor Valley, Antarctica

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Bockheim, James G.; Prentice, M.L.; McLeod, M.

    2008-01-01

    We provide a map of lower and central Taylor Valley, Antarctica, that shows deposits from Taylor Glacier, local alpine glaciers, and grounded ice in the Ross Embayment. From our electronic database, which includes 153 sites from the coast 50 km upvalley to Pearse Valley, we show the distribution of permafrost type and soil subgroups according to Soil Taxonomy. Soils in eastern Taylor Valley are of late Pleistocene age, cryoturbated due to the presence of ground ice or ice-cemented permafrost within 70 cm of the surface, and classified as Glacic and Typic Haploturbels. In central Taylor Valley, soils are dominantly Typic Anhyorthels of mid-Pleistocene age that have dry-frozen permafrost within the upper 70 cm. Salt-enriched soils (Salic Anhyorthels and Petrosalic Anhyorthels) are of limited extent in Taylor Valley and occur primarily on drifts of early Pleistocene and Pliocene age. Soils are less developed in Taylor Valley than in nearby Wright Valley, because of lesser salt input from atmospheric deposition and salt weathering. Ice-cemented permafrost is ubiquitous on Ross Sea, pre-Ross Sea, and Bonney drifts that occur within 28 km of the McMurdo coast. In contrast, dry-frozen permafrost is prevalent on older (???115 ky) surfaces to the west. ?? 2008 Regents of the University of Colorado.

  19. Functional Assessment of the Vanderbilt Multigrasp Myoelectric Hand: A Continuing Case Study

    PubMed Central

    Dalley, Skyler A.; Bennett, Daniel A.; Goldfarb, Michael

    2015-01-01

    This paper presents a case study involving the functional assessment of the Vanderbilt Multigrasp (VMG) hand prosthesis on a single transradial amputee subject. In particular, a transradial amputee subject performed the Southampton Hand Assessment Procedure (SHAP) using the hand prosthesis and multigrasp myoelectric controller in a series of experimental sessions occurring over a multi-week time span. The subject’s index of function (IoF) improved with each session, although essentially plateaued after the fourth session, resulting in a IoF score of 87, which compares favorably to SHAP scores published in previous studies. PMID:25571412

  20. Magnetically Induced Rotating Rayleigh-Taylor Instability.

    PubMed

    Scase, Matthew M; Baldwin, Kyle A; Hill, Richard J A

    2017-03-03

    Classical techniques for investigating the Rayleigh-Taylor instability include using compressed gasses 1 , rocketry 2 or linear electric motors 3 to reverse the effective direction of gravity, and accelerate the lighter fluid toward the denser fluid. Other authors e.g. 4 , 5 , 6 have separated a gravitationally unstable stratification with a barrier that is removed to initiate the flow. However, the parabolic initial interface in the case of a rotating stratification imposes significant technical difficulties experimentally. We wish to be able to spin-up the stratification into solid-body rotation and only then initiate the flow in order to investigate the effects of rotation upon the Rayleigh-Taylor instability. The approach we have adopted here is to use the magnetic field of a superconducting magnet to manipulate the effective weight of the two liquids to initiate the flow. We create a gravitationally stable two-layer stratification using standard flotation techniques. The upper layer is less dense than the lower layer and so the system is Rayleigh-Taylor stable. This stratification is then spun-up until both layers are in solid-body rotation and a parabolic interface is observed. These experiments use fluids with low magnetic susceptibility, |χ| ~ 10 -6 - 10 -5 , compared to a ferrofluids. The dominant effect of the magnetic field applies a body-force to each layer changing the effective weight. The upper layer is weakly paramagnetic while the lower layer is weakly diamagnetic. When the magnetic field is applied, the lower layer is repelled from the magnet while the upper layer is attracted towards the magnet. A Rayleigh-Taylor instability is achieved with application of a high gradient magnetic field. We further observed that increasing the dynamic viscosity of the fluid in each layer, increases the length-scale of the instability.

  1. On Using Taylor's Hypothesis for Three-Dimensional Mixing Layers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    LeBoeuf, Richard L.; Mehta, Rabindra D.

    1995-01-01

    In the present study, errors in using Taylor's hypothesis to transform measurements obtained in a temporal (or phase) frame onto a spatial one were evaluated. For the first time, phase-averaged ('real') spanwise and streamwise vorticity data measured on a three-dimensional grid were compared directly to those obtained using Taylor's hypothesis. The results show that even the qualitative features of the spanwise and streamwise vorticity distributions given by the two techniques can be very different. This is particularly true in the region of the spanwise roller pairing. The phase-averaged spanwise and streamwise peak vorticity levels given by Taylor's hypothesis are typically lower (by up to 40%) compared to the real measurements.

  2. Chagas disease vector control and Taylor's law

    PubMed Central

    Rodríguez-Planes, Lucía I.; Gaspe, María S.; Cecere, María C.; Cardinal, Marta V.

    2017-01-01

    Background Large spatial and temporal fluctuations in the population density of living organisms have profound consequences for biodiversity conservation, food production, pest control and disease control, especially vector-borne disease control. Chagas disease vector control based on insecticide spraying could benefit from improved concepts and methods to deal with spatial variations in vector population density. Methodology/Principal findings We show that Taylor's law (TL) of fluctuation scaling describes accurately the mean and variance over space of relative abundance, by habitat, of four insect vectors of Chagas disease (Triatoma infestans, Triatoma guasayana, Triatoma garciabesi and Triatoma sordida) in 33,908 searches of people's dwellings and associated habitats in 79 field surveys in four districts in the Argentine Chaco region, before and after insecticide spraying. As TL predicts, the logarithm of the sample variance of bug relative abundance closely approximates a linear function of the logarithm of the sample mean of abundance in different habitats. Slopes of TL indicate spatial aggregation or variation in habitat suitability. Predictions of new mathematical models of the effect of vector control measures on TL agree overall with field data before and after community-wide spraying of insecticide. Conclusions/Significance A spatial Taylor's law identifies key habitats with high average infestation and spatially highly variable infestation, providing a new instrument for the control and elimination of the vectors of a major human disease. PMID:29190728

  3. 78 FR 12307 - Taylor, G. Tom; Notice of Filing

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-02-22

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. ID-5705-001] Taylor, G. Tom; Notice of Filing Take notice that on February 14, 2013, G. Tom Taylor filed an application to hold interlocking positions pursuant to section 305(b) of the Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. 825d(b), Part 45 of the...

  4. Effects of smartphone overuse on hand function, pinch strength, and the median nerve.

    PubMed

    İnal, Esra Erkol; Demİrcİ, kadİr; Çetİntürk, Azİze; Akgönül, Mehmet; Savaş, Serpİl

    2015-08-01

    In this study we investigated the flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendon and median nerve in smartphone users by ultrasonography to assess the effects of smartphone addiction on the clinical and functional status of the hands. One hundred two students were divided into 3 groups: non-users, and high or low smartphone users. Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) scores and grip and pinch strengths were recorded. Pain in thumb movement and rest and hand function were evaluated on the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Duruöz Hand Index (DHI), respectively. The cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the median nerve and the FPL tendon were calculated bilaterally using ultrasonography. Significantly higher median nerve CSAs were observed in the dominant hands of the high smartphone users than in the non-dominant hands (P<0.001). SAS scores correlated with VAS pain for movement and rest, DHI scores, and pinch strength (P<0.05; r=0.345, 0.272, 0.245, and 0.281, respectively). Smartphone overuse enlarges the median nerve, causes pain in the thumb, and decreases pinch strength and hand functions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  5. Baker & Taylor's George Coe

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fialkoff, Francine

    2009-01-01

    In his 30 years as a library wholesaler, first as VP and general manager of Brodart Books, Library, and School Automation divisions and since 2000 as president of the Library & Education division of Baker & Taylor (B&T), George Coe has been instrumental in a whole host of innovations. They go way beyond the selection, processing, and delivery of…

  6. Numeric Function Generators Using Decision Diagrams for Discrete Functions

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-05-01

    Taylor series and Chebyshev series. Since polynomial functions can be realized with multipliers and adders, any numeric functions can be realized in...NFGs from the decision diagrams. Since nu- meric functions can be expanded into polynomial functions, such as a Taylor series, in this section, we use...pp. 107–114, July 1995. [13] T. Kam, T. Villa, R. K. Brayton , and A. L. Sangiovanni- Vincentelli, “Multi-valued decision diagrams: Theory and appli

  7. Engaging Cervical Spinal Cord Networks to Reenable Volitional Control of Hand Function in Tetraplegic Patients.

    PubMed

    Lu, Daniel C; Edgerton, V Reggie; Modaber, Morteza; AuYong, Nicholas; Morikawa, Erika; Zdunowski, Sharon; Sarino, Melanie E; Sarrafzadeh, Majid; Nuwer, Marc R; Roy, Roland R; Gerasimenko, Yury

    2016-11-01

    Paralysis of the upper limbs from spinal cord injury results in an enormous loss of independence in an individual's daily life. Meaningful improvement in hand function is rare after 1 year of tetraparesis. Therapeutic developments that result in even modest gains in hand volitional function will significantly affect the quality of life for patients afflicted with high cervical injury. The ability to neuromodulate the lumbosacral spinal circuitry via epidural stimulation in regaining postural function and volitional control of the legs has been recently shown. A key question is whether a similar neuromodulatory strategy can be used to improve volitional motor control of the upper limbs, that is, performance of motor tasks considered to be less "automatic" than posture and locomotion. In this study, the effects of cervical epidural stimulation on hand function are characterized in subjects with chronic cervical cord injury. Herein we show that epidural stimulation can be applied to the chronic injured human cervical spinal cord to promote volitional hand function. Two subjects implanted with a cervical epidural electrode array demonstrated improved hand strength (approximately 3-fold) and volitional hand control in the presence of epidural stimulation. The present data are sufficient to suggest that hand motor function in individuals with chronic tetraplegia can be improved with cervical cord neuromodulation and thus should be comprehensively explored as a possible clinical intervention. © The Author(s) 2016.

  8. Functional range of motion of the hand joints in activities of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health.

    PubMed

    Gracia-Ibáñez, Verónica; Vergara, Margarita; Sancho-Bru, Joaquín L; Mora, Marta C; Piqueras, Catalina

    Cross-sectional research design. Active range of motion (AROM) is used as indicator of hand function. However, functional range of motion (FROM) data are limited, and fail to represent activities of daily living (ADL). To estimate dominant hand FROM in flexion, abduction and palmar arching in people under 50 years of age performing ADL. AROMs and hand postures in 24 representative ADL of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) were recorded in 12 men and 12 women. FROM data were reported by activity and ICF area, and compared with AROMs. The relationship between ROM measures to gender and hand size was analyzed by correlation. FROM was 5° to 28° less than available AROM depending on the joint and movement performed. Joints do not necessarily move through full AROM while performing ADL which has benefits in retaining function despite loss of motion. This may also suggest that ADL alone are insufficient to retain or restore full AROM. Therapists should consider FROM requirements and normal AROM when defining hand therapy goals, interventions and evaluating the success of treatment. N/A. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Ontogenetic trends in gnostic hand function in 3- to 12-yr-old children.

    PubMed

    van Grunsven, W; Njiokiktjien, C; Vranken, M; Vuylsteke-Wauters, M

    2003-06-01

    The intimate relation between the sensory and motor functions of the hands during object manipulation and exploratory touch, the well-known improvement in object handling and constructive performance in ontogenesis and the emergent laterality thereof, assume changes in morphognostic capabilities in children. In this study we tried to corroborate the hypothesis of Mesker that mature and lateralized finger-thumb opposition is preceded by a stage of two-sided manual form agnosia in preschool children, followed by acquisition of morphognosis of the fingers and, finally, the thumbs. This study examined the development of gnostic hand function in 290 children from 3 to 11 years of age who drew the outlines of a meaningless wooden object passively felt with each hand without visual control. Analysis showed a clear ontogenetic change across the two age groups of increasing morphognostic function: 48% of the 6-yr.-olds drew correctly what the fingers of both left and right hands had perceived (thumbs, 14%). Of the 11-yr.-olds 91% and 61% performed perfectly with the right and left hands, respectively. The fingers preceded the thumbs in reproduction by most children, and the correct reproduction by the left thumb precedes that of the right thumb. The ontogenesis of bimanual sensorimotor functioning is discussed in the light of cortical and callosal development.

  10. Bifurcating fronts for the Taylor-Couette problem in infinite cylinders

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hărăguş-Courcelle, M.; Schneider, G.

    We show the existence of bifurcating fronts for the weakly unstable Taylor-Couette problem in an infinite cylinder. These fronts connect a stationary bifurcating pattern, here the Taylor vortices, with the trivial ground state, here the Couette flow. In order to show the existence result we improve a method which was already used in establishing the existence of bifurcating fronts for the Swift-Hohenberg equation by Collet and Eckmann, 1986, and by Eckmann and Wayne, 1991. The existence proof is based on spatial dynamics and center manifold theory. One of the difficulties in applying center manifold theory comes from an infinite number of eigenvalues on the imaginary axis for vanishing bifurcation parameter. But nevertheless, a finite dimensional reduction is possible, since the eigenvalues leave the imaginary axis with different velocities, if the bifurcation parameter is increased. In contrast to previous work we have to use normalform methods and a non-standard cut-off function to obtain a center manifold which is large enough to contain the bifurcating fronts.

  11. Neo-Taylorism in Educational Administration?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gronn, Peter C.

    1982-01-01

    Reviews eight recent observational studies of school administrators and criticizes the studies' use of "time and motion" assumptions drawn from Frederick Winslow Taylor's ideas. Outlines an alternate approach based on "thick" description of administrators' work, including their talk, as exemplified in James Boswell's biography…

  12. Rapid Calculation of Spacecraft Trajectories Using Efficient Taylor Series Integration

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, James R.; Martini, Michael C.

    2011-01-01

    A variable-order, variable-step Taylor series integration algorithm was implemented in NASA Glenn's SNAP (Spacecraft N-body Analysis Program) code. SNAP is a high-fidelity trajectory propagation program that can propagate the trajectory of a spacecraft about virtually any body in the solar system. The Taylor series algorithm's very high order accuracy and excellent stability properties lead to large reductions in computer time relative to the code's existing 8th order Runge-Kutta scheme. Head-to-head comparison on near-Earth, lunar, Mars, and Europa missions showed that Taylor series integration is 15.8 times faster than Runge- Kutta on average, and is more accurate. These speedups were obtained for calculations involving central body, other body, thrust, and drag forces. Similar speedups have been obtained for calculations that include J2 spherical harmonic for central body gravitation. The algorithm includes a step size selection method that directly calculates the step size and never requires a repeat step. High-order Taylor series integration algorithms have been shown to provide major reductions in computer time over conventional integration methods in numerous scientific applications. The objective here was to directly implement Taylor series integration in an existing trajectory analysis code and demonstrate that large reductions in computer time (order of magnitude) could be achieved while simultaneously maintaining high accuracy. This software greatly accelerates the calculation of spacecraft trajectories. At each time level, the spacecraft position, velocity, and mass are expanded in a high-order Taylor series whose coefficients are obtained through efficient differentiation arithmetic. This makes it possible to take very large time steps at minimal cost, resulting in large savings in computer time. The Taylor series algorithm is implemented primarily through three subroutines: (1) a driver routine that automatically introduces auxiliary variables and

  13. Taylor Impact Tests and Simulations on PBX 9501

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Clements, Brad; Thompson, Darla G.; Luscher, D. J.; Deluca, Racci

    2011-06-01

    Taylor impact tests have been conducted previously on plastic bonded explosives (PBXs) to characterize the stress state of these materials as they impact smooth and flat steel anvil surfaces at speeds of ~100m/s (i.e. Christopher, et al, 11th Detonation Symposium). In 2003, C. Liu and R. Ellis (unpublished, Los Alamos National Laboratory) performed Taylor tests on PBX 9501 up to speeds of 115 m/s, capturing impact images. In the work presented here, we have extended these tests to velocities of 200 m/s using a composite-lined gun barrel and no specimen sabot. Specimen images are used to validate the thermo-mechanical constitutive model ViscoSCRAM. ViscoSCRAM has been parameterized for PBX 9501 in uniaxial stress configurations. Simulating Taylor impact experiments tests the model in situations undergoing extreme damage. In addition, experimental variations to specimen confinement and friction are introduced in an attempt to establish ignition thresholds in this velocity regime.

  14. Design of an Inertial-Sensor-Based Data Glove for Hand Function Evaluation.

    PubMed

    Lin, Bor-Shing; Lee, I-Jung; Yang, Shu-Yu; Lo, Yi-Chiang; Lee, Junghsi; Chen, Jean-Lon

    2018-05-13

    Capturing hand motions for hand function evaluations is essential in the medical field. Various data gloves have been developed for rehabilitation and manual dexterity assessments. This study proposed a modular data glove with 9-axis inertial measurement units (IMUs) to obtain static and dynamic parameters during hand function evaluation. A sensor fusion algorithm is used to calculate the range of motion of joints. The data glove is designed to have low cost, easy wearability, and high reliability. Owing to the modular design, the IMU board is independent and extensible and can be used with various microcontrollers to realize more medical applications. This design greatly enhances the stability and maintainability of the glove.

  15. Bursting the Taylor cone bubble

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pan, Zhao; Truscott, Tadd

    2014-11-01

    A soap bubble fixed on a surface and placed in an electric field will take on the shape of a cone rather than constant curvature (dome) when the electrical field is not present. The phenomenon was introduced by J. Zeleny (1917) and studied extensively by C.T. Wilson & G.I. Taylor (1925). We revisit the Taylor cone problem by studying the deformation and bursting of soap bubbles in a point charge electric field. A single bubble takes on the shape of a cone in the electric field and a high-speed camera equipped with a micro-lens is used to observe the unsteady dynamics at the tip. Rupture occurs as a very small piece of the tip is torn away from the bubble toward the point charge. Based on experiments, a theoretical model is developed that predicts when rupture should occur. This study may help in the design of foam-removal techniques in engineering and provide a better understanding of an electrified air-liquid interface.

  16. Taylor expansion of luminosity distance in Szekeres cosmological models: effects of local structures evolution on cosmographic parameters

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Villani, Mattia, E-mail: villani@fi.infn.it

    2014-06-01

    We consider the Goode-Wainwright representation of the Szekeres cosmological models and calculate the Taylor expansion of the luminosity distance in order to study the effects of the inhomogeneities on cosmographic parameters. Without making a particular choice for the arbitrary functions defining the metric, we Taylor expand up to the second order in redshift for Family I and up to the third order for Family II Szekeres metrics under the hypotesis, based on observation, that local structure formation is over. In a conservative fashion, we also allow for the existence of a non null cosmological constant.

  17. Fractures and dislocations of the hand in polytrauma patients: Incidence, injury pattern and functional outcome.

    PubMed

    Ferree, Steven; van der Vliet, Quirine M J; van Heijl, Mark; Houwert, Roderick M; Leenen, Luke P H; Hietbrink, Falco

    2017-04-01

    Injuries of the hand can cause significant functional impairment, diminished quality of life and delayed return to work. However, the incidence and functional outcome of hand injuries in polytrauma patients is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, distribution and functional outcome of fractures and dislocation of the hand in polytrauma patients. A single centre retrospective cohort study was performed at a level 1 trauma centre. Polytrauma was defined as patients with an Injury Severity Score of 16 or higher. Fractures and dislocations to the hand were determined. All eligible polytrauma patients with hand injuries were included and a Quick Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QDASH) and Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) were administered. Patients were contacted 1-6 years after trauma. In a cohort of 2046 polytrauma patients 72 patients (3.5%) suffered a hand injury. The functional outcome scores of 52 patients (72%) were obtained. The Metacarpal (48%) and carpal (33%) bones were the most frequently affected. The median QDASH score for all patients with hand injury was 17 (IQR 0-31) and the PRWHE 14 (IQR 0-41). Patients with a concomitant upper extremity injury (p=0.002 for PRWHE, p0.006 for QDASH) and those with higher ISS scores (p=0.034 for PRWHE, QDASH not significant) had worse functional outcome scores. As an example, of the 5 patients with the worst outcome scores 3 suffered an isolated phalangeal injury, all had concomitant upper extremity injury or neurological injuries (3 plexus injuries, 1 severe brain injury). The incidence of hand injuries in polytrauma patients is 3.5%, which is relatively low compared to a general trauma population. Metacarpal and carpal bones were most frequently affected. The functional extremity specific outcome scores are highly influenced by concomitant injuries (upper extremity injuries, neurological injuries and higher ISS). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All

  18. Hand grip strength and dexterity function in children aged 6-12 years: A cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Omar, Mohammed T A; Alghadir, Ahmad H; Zafar, Hamayun; Al Baker, Shaheerah

    Cross-sectional and clinical measurement. Assessment of hand function considers an essential part in clinical practice. To develop normative values of hand grip strength and dexterity function for 6-12-year-old children in Saudi Arabia. Grip strength and dexterity function was measured in 525 children using Grip Track hand dynamometer (JTECH Medical, Midvale, UT, USA) and 9-hole pegboard test respectively. The grip strength and dexterity function was improved as age progressed regardless of gender. Across all age groups, the hand grip strength of boys was significantly higher than girls for dominant hand (31.75 ± 10.33 vs 28.24 ± 9.35; P < .001) and nondominant hand (31.01 ± 10.27 vs 27.27 ± 9.30; P < .001). The girls performed slightly faster than boys for dominant hand (19.70 vs 20.68; P < .05) and nondominant hand (21.79 vs 23.46; P < .05). In general, girls completed a 9-HPT faster than boys in the 2 of 7 age groups: 11 years (9-HPT scores = 2.10 seconds; P < .01) and 12 years (9-HPT scores = 1.93 seconds; P < .01). The overall patterns of hand grip strength and dexterity function observed in the present study are similar to the previous studies that established acceleration of grip strength with advanced age, and faster performance scores in older children than younger children in both genders. Norms of hand grip strength and dexterity enable therapists to identify some developmental characteristics of hand function among Saudi children, determine the presence of impairment, and compare scores from children in different clinical settings. Not applicable. Copyright © 2017 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Increasing accuracy in the interval analysis by the improved format of interval extension based on the first order Taylor series

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Yi; Xu, Yan Long

    2018-05-01

    When the dependence of the function on uncertain variables is non-monotonic in interval, the interval of function obtained by the classic interval extension based on the first order Taylor series will exhibit significant errors. In order to reduce theses errors, the improved format of the interval extension with the first order Taylor series is developed here considering the monotonicity of function. Two typical mathematic examples are given to illustrate this methodology. The vibration of a beam with lumped masses is studied to demonstrate the usefulness of this method in the practical application, and the necessary input data of which are only the function value at the central point of interval, sensitivity and deviation of function. The results of above examples show that the interval of function from the method developed by this paper is more accurate than the ones obtained by the classic method.

  20. Move it to improve it (Mitii): study protocol of a randomised controlled trial of a novel web-based multimodal training program for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy

    PubMed Central

    Boyd, Roslyn N; Mitchell, Louise E; James, Sarah T; Ziviani, Jenny; Sakzewski, Leanne; Smith, Anthony; Rose, Stephen; Cunnington, Ross; Whittingham, Koa; Ware, Robert S; Comans, Tracey A; Scuffham, Paul A

    2013-01-01

    Introduction Persons with cerebral palsy require a lifetime of costly and resource intensive interventions which are often limited by equity of access. With increasing burden being placed on health systems, new methods to deliver intensive rehabilitation therapies are needed. Move it to improve it (Mitii) is an internet-based multimodal programme comprising upper-limb and cognitive training with physical activity. It can be accessed in the client's home at their convenience. The proposed study aims to test the efficacy of Mitii in improving upper-limb function and motor planning. Additionally, this study hopes to further our understanding of the central neurovascular mechanisms underlying the proposed changes and determine the cost effectiveness of Mitii. Methods and analysis Children with congenital hemiplegia will be recruited to participate in this waitlist control, matched pairs, single-blind randomised trial. Children be matched at baseline and randomly allocated to receive 20 weeks of 30 min of daily Mitii training immediately, or waitlisted for 20 weeks before receiving the same Mitii training (potential total dose=70 h). Outcomes will be assessed at 20 weeks after the start of Mitii, and retention effects tested at 40 weeks. The primary outcomes will be the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS), the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA) and unimanual upper-limb capacity using the Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF). Advanced brain imaging will assess use-dependant neuroplasticity. Measures of body structure and functions, activity, participation and quality of life will be used to assess Mitii efficacy across all domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework. Ethics and dissemination This project has received Ethics Approval from the Medical Ethics Committee of The University of Queensland (2011000608) and the Royal Children's Hospital Brisbane (HREC/11/QRCH/35). Findings will be

  1. [Functional magnetic resonance imaging. What are the benefits expected in hand surgery?].

    PubMed

    Moutet, F; Delon-Martin, C; Martin, O; Sirigu, A; Delaquaize, F; Benali, H; Masquelet, A-C

    2013-06-01

    Functional MRI (fMRI) allowed considerable advances upon understanding of cerebral functioning. Cortical plasticity, which allows the voluntary command of a restored function by a transferred muscle remains to be investigated in its intimacy. The authors present here the round table held at the 48th annual meeting of the French Society for Surgery of the Hand on December 22nd, 2012. It tries to review the analysis of the phenomenon observed during multiple tendinous transfers for restoration of proximal radial nerve palsy. Were successively approached: 1) Methods of acquisition and analysis of the signals (C. D-M.); 2) Movement reorganization (O.M.); 3) Motor plasticity after hand allograft (A. S.); 4) The potential interest of the fMRI in hand rehabilitation (F. D.); 5) The analysis of cerebral plasticity in general (H. B.). A rather philosophical conclusion opens other fields to f MRI (A.M.). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  2. Utilizing Lidar Data for Detection of Channel Migration: Taylor Valley, Antarctica

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barlow, M. C.; Telling, J. W.; Glennie, C.; Fountain, A.

    2017-12-01

    The McMurdo Dry Valleys is the largest ice-free expanse in Antarctica and one of the most studied regions on the continent. The valleys are a hyper-arid, cold-polar desert that receives little precipitation (<50 mm weq yr-1). The valley bottoms are covered in a sandy-gravel, dotted with ice-covered lakes and ponds, and alpine glaciers that descend from the surrounding mountains. Glacial melt feeds the lakes via ephemeral streams that flow 6 - 10 weeks each summer. Field observations indicate that the valley floors, particularly in Taylor Valley, contain numerous abandoned stream channels but, given the modest stream flows, channel migration is rarely observed. Only a few channels have been surveyed in the field due to the slow pace of manual methods. Here we present a method to assess channel migration over a broad region in order to study the pattern of channel migration as a function of climatic and/or geologic gradients in Taylor Valley. Raster images of high-resolution topography were created from two lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) datasets and were used to analyze channel migration in Taylor Valley. The first lidar dataset was collected in 2001 by NASA's Airborne Topographic Mapper (ATM) and the second was collected by the National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping (NCALM) in 2014 with an Optech Titan Sensor. The channels were extracted for each dataset using GeoNet, which is an open source tool used for the automatic extraction of channel networks. Channel migration was found to range from 0 to 50 cm per year depending upon the location. Channel complexity was determined based on the change in the number of channel branches and their length. We present the results for various regions in Taylor Valley with differing degrees of stream complexity. Further research is being done to determine factors that drive channel migration rates in this unique environment.

  3. Reconnaissance and deep-drill site selection on Taylor Dome, Antarctica

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Grootes, Pieter M.; Waddington, Edwin D.

    1993-01-01

    Taylor Dome is a small ice dome near the head of Taylor Valley, Southern Victoria Land. The location of the dome, just west of the Transantarctic Mountains, is expected to make the composition of the accumulating snow sensitive to changes in the extent of the Ross Ice Shelf. Thus, it is linked to the discharge of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet but protected against direct influences of glacial-interglacial sea-level rise. The record of past climatic and environmental changes in the ice provides a valuable complement to the radiocarbon-dated proxy record of climate derived from perched deltas, strandlines, and moraines that have been obtained in the nearby Dry Valleys. We carried out a reconnaissance of the Taylor Dome area over the past two field seasons to determine the most favorable location to obtain a deep core to bedrock. A stake network has been established with an 80-km line roughly along the crest of Taylor Dome, and 40-km lines parallel to it and offset by 10 km. These lines have been surveyed 1990/91, and the positions of 9 grid points have been determined with geoceivers. A higher density stake network was placed and surveyed around the most likely drill area in the second year. Ground-based radar soundings in both years provided details on bedrock topography and internal layering of the ice in the drill area. An airborne radar survey in January 1992, completed the radar coverage of the Taylor Dome field area.

  4. Virtual Reality to Maximize Function for Hand and Arm Rehabilitation: Exploration of Neural Mechanisms

    PubMed Central

    MERIANS, Alma S.; TUNIK, Eugene; ADAMOVICH, Sergei V.

    2015-01-01

    Stroke patients report hand function as the most disabling motor deficit. Current evidence shows that learning new motor skills is essential for inducing functional neuroplasticity and functional recovery. Adaptive training paradigms that continually and interactively move a motor outcome closer to the targeted skill are important to motor recovery. Computerized virtual reality simulations when interfaced with robots, movement tracking and sensing glove systems are particularly adaptable, allowing for online and offline modifications of task based activities using the participant’s current performance and success rate. We have developed a second generation system that can exercise the hand and the arm together or in isolation and provides for both unilateral and bilateral hand and arm activities in three-dimensional space. We demonstrate that by providing haptic assistance for the hand and arm and adaptive anti-gravity support, the system can accommodate patients with lower level impairments. We hypothesize that combining training in VE with observation of motor actions can bring additional benefits. We present a proof of concept of a novel system that integrates interactive VE with functional neuroimaging to address this issue. Three components of this system are synchronized, the presentation of the visual display of the virtual hands, the collection of fMRI images and the collection of hand joint angles from the instrumented gloves. We show that interactive VEs can facilitate activation of brain areas during training by providing appropriately modified visual feedback. We predict that visual augmentation can become a tool to facilitate functional neuroplasticity. PMID:19592790

  5. Fluctuation scaling, Taylor's law, and crime.

    PubMed

    Hanley, Quentin S; Khatun, Suniya; Yosef, Amal; Dyer, Rachel-May

    2014-01-01

    Fluctuation scaling relationships have been observed in a wide range of processes ranging from internet router traffic to measles cases. Taylor's law is one such scaling relationship and has been widely applied in ecology to understand communities including trees, birds, human populations, and insects. We show that monthly crime reports in the UK show complex fluctuation scaling which can be approximated by Taylor's law relationships corresponding to local policing neighborhoods and larger regional and countrywide scales. Regression models applied to local scale data from Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire found that different categories of crime exhibited different scaling exponents with no significant difference between the two regions. On this scale, violence reports were close to a Poisson distribution (α = 1.057 ± 0.026) while burglary exhibited a greater exponent (α = 1.292 ± 0.029) indicative of temporal clustering. These two regions exhibited significantly different pre-exponential factors for the categories of anti-social behavior and burglary indicating that local variations in crime reports can be assessed using fluctuation scaling methods. At regional and countrywide scales, all categories exhibited scaling behavior indicative of temporal clustering evidenced by Taylor's law exponents from 1.43 ± 0.12 (Drugs) to 2.094 ± 0081 (Other Crimes). Investigating crime behavior via fluctuation scaling gives insight beyond that of raw numbers and is unique in reporting on all processes contributing to the observed variance and is either robust to or exhibits signs of many types of data manipulation.

  6. Self-similarity in high Atwood number Rayleigh-Taylor experiments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mikhaeil, Mark; Suchandra, Prasoon; Pathikonda, Gokul; Ranjan, Devesh

    2017-11-01

    Self-similarity is a critical concept in turbulent and mixing flows. In the Rayleigh-Taylor instability, theory and simulations have shown that the flow exhibits properties of self-similarity as the mixing Reynolds number exceeds 20000 and the flow enters the turbulent regime. Here, we present results from the first large Atwood number (0.7) Rayleigh-Taylor experimental campaign for mixing Reynolds number beyond 20000 in an effort to characterize the self-similar nature of the instability. Experiments are performed in a statistically steady gas tunnel facility, allowing for the evaluation of turbulence statistics. A visualization diagnostic is used to study the evolution of the mixing width as the instability grows. This allows for computation of the instability growth rate. For the first time in such a facility, stereoscopic particle image velocimetry is used to resolve three-component velocity information in a plane. Velocity means, fluctuations, and correlations are considered as well as their appropriate scaling. Probability density functions of velocity fields, energy spectra, and higher-order statistics are also presented. The energy budget of the flow is described, including the ratio of the kinetic energy to the released potential energy. This work was supported by the DOE-NNSA SSAA Grant DE-NA0002922.

  7. The ATOMFT integrator - Using Taylor series to solve ordinary differential equations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Berryman, Kenneth W.; Stanford, Richard H.; Breckheimer, Peter J.

    1988-01-01

    This paper discusses the application of ATOMFT, an integration package based on Taylor series solution with a sophisticated user interface. ATOMFT has the capabilities to allow the implementation of user defined functions and the solution of stiff and algebraic equations. Detailed examples, including the solutions to several astrodynamics problems, are presented. Comparisons with its predecessor ATOMCC and other modern integrators indicate that ATOMFT is a fast, accurate, and easy method to use to solve many differential equation problems.

  8. Outcome measurement of hand function following mirror therapy for stroke rehabilitation: A systematic review.

    PubMed

    Cantero-Téllez, Raquel; Naughton, Nancy; Algar, Lori; Valdes, Kristin

    2018-02-28

    Systematic review. Mirror therapy is a treatment used to address hand function following a stroke. Measurement of outcomes using appropriate assessment tools is crucial; however, many assessment options exist. The purpose of this study is to systematically review outcome measures that are used to assess hand function following mirror therapy after stroke and, in addition, to identify the psychometric and descriptive properties of the included measures and through the linking process determine if the outcome measures are representative of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Following a comprehensive literature search, outcome measures used in the included studies were linked to the ICF and analyzed based on descriptive information and psychometric properties. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria and included 24 different assessment tools to measure hand or upper limb function. Most outcome measures used in the selected studies (63%) were rated by the evaluating therapist. Thirteen outcome measures (54%) linked to the ICF body function category and 10 measures (42%) linked to activities and participation. One outcome measure was linked to not defined, and all other ICF categories were not represented. A majority of outcome measures have been assessed for validity, reliability, and responsiveness, but responsiveness was the least investigated psychometric property. Current studies on mirror therapy after stroke are not consistent in the assessment tools used to determine hand function. Understanding of study outcomes requires analysis of the assessment tools. The outcome measures used in the included studies are not representative of personal and environmental factors, but tools linking to body functions and activities and participations provide important information on functional outcome. Integrating a combination of measures that are psychometrically sound and reflective of the ICF should be considered for assessment of

  9. On the secondary instability of Taylor-Goertler vortices to Tollmien-Schlichting waves in fully developed flows

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bennett, James; Hall, Philip

    1988-01-01

    There are many flows of practical importance where both Tollmien-Schlichting waves and Taylor-Goertler vortices are possible causes of transition to turbulence. The effect of fully nonlinear Taylor-Goertler vortices on the growth of small amplitude Tollmien-Schlichting waves is investigated. The basic state considered is the fully developed flow between concentric cylinders driven by an azimuthal pressure gradient. It is hoped that an investigation of this problem will shed light on the more complicated external boundary layer problem where again both modes of instability exist in the presence of concave curvature. The type of Tollmien-Schlichting waves considered have the asymptotic structure of lower branch modes of plane Poiseuille flow. Whilst instabilities at lower Reynolds number are possible, the latter modes are simpler to analyze and more relevant to the boundary layer problem. The effect of fully nonlinear Taylor-Goertler vortices on both two-dimensional and three-dimensional waves is determined. It is shown that, whilst the maximum growth as a function of frequency is not greatly affected, there is a large destabilizing effect over a large range of frequencies.

  10. On the secondary instability of Taylor-Goertler vortices to Tollmien-Schlichting waves in fully-developed flows

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bennett, James; Hall, Philip

    1986-01-01

    There are many flows of practical importance where both Tollmien-Schlichting waves and Taylor-Goertler vortices are possible causes of transition to turbulence. The effect of fully nonlinear Taylor-Goertler vortices on the growth of small amplitude Tollmien-Schlichting waves is investigated. The basic state considered is the fully developed flow between concentric cylinders driven by an azimuthal pressure gradient. It is hoped that an investigation of this problem will shed light on the more complicated external boundary layer problem where again both modes of instability exist in the presence of concave curvature. The type of Tollmein-Schlichting waves considered have the asymptotic structure of lower branch modes of plane Poisseulle flow. Whilst instabilities at lower Reynolds number are possible, the latter modes are simpler to analyze and more relevant to the boundary layer problem. The effect of fully nonlinear Taylor-Goertler vortices on both two-dimensional and three-dimensional waves is determined. It is shown that, whilst the maximum growth as a function of frequency is not greatly affected, there is a large destabilizing effect over a large range of frequencies.

  11. Detection of Life Threatening Ventricular Arrhythmia Using Digital Taylor Fourier Transform.

    PubMed

    Tripathy, Rajesh K; Zamora-Mendez, Alejandro; de la O Serna, José A; Paternina, Mario R Arrieta; Arrieta, Juan G; Naik, Ganesh R

    2018-01-01

    Accurate detection and classification of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia episodes such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) and rapid ventricular tachycardia (VT) from electrocardiogram (ECG) is a challenging problem for patient monitoring and defibrillation therapy. This paper introduces a novel method for detection and classification of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia episodes. The ECG signal is decomposed into various oscillatory modes using digital Taylor-Fourier transform (DTFT). The magnitude feature and a novel phase feature namely the phase difference (PD) are evaluated from the mode Taylor-Fourier coefficients of ECG signal. The least square support vector machine (LS-SVM) classifier with linear and radial basis function (RBF) kernels is employed for detection and classification of VT vs. VF, non-shock vs. shock and VF vs. non-VF arrhythmia episodes. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values obtained using the proposed method are 89.81, 86.38, and 93.97%, respectively for the classification of Non-VF and VF episodes. Comparison with the performance of the state-of-the-art features demonstrate the advantages of the proposition.

  12. Detection of Life Threatening Ventricular Arrhythmia Using Digital Taylor Fourier Transform

    PubMed Central

    Tripathy, Rajesh K.; Zamora-Mendez, Alejandro; de la O Serna, José A.; Paternina, Mario R. Arrieta; Arrieta, Juan G.; Naik, Ganesh R.

    2018-01-01

    Accurate detection and classification of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia episodes such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) and rapid ventricular tachycardia (VT) from electrocardiogram (ECG) is a challenging problem for patient monitoring and defibrillation therapy. This paper introduces a novel method for detection and classification of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia episodes. The ECG signal is decomposed into various oscillatory modes using digital Taylor-Fourier transform (DTFT). The magnitude feature and a novel phase feature namely the phase difference (PD) are evaluated from the mode Taylor-Fourier coefficients of ECG signal. The least square support vector machine (LS-SVM) classifier with linear and radial basis function (RBF) kernels is employed for detection and classification of VT vs. VF, non-shock vs. shock and VF vs. non-VF arrhythmia episodes. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values obtained using the proposed method are 89.81, 86.38, and 93.97%, respectively for the classification of Non-VF and VF episodes. Comparison with the performance of the state-of-the-art features demonstrate the advantages of the proposition.

  13. Resting State and Diffusion Neuroimaging Predictors of Clinical Improvements Following Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy.

    PubMed

    Manning, Kathryn Y; Fehlings, Darcy; Mesterman, Ronit; Gorter, Jan Willem; Switzer, Lauren; Campbell, Craig; Menon, Ravi S

    2015-10-01

    The aim was to identify neuroimaging predictors of clinical improvements following constraint-induced movement therapy. Resting state functional magnetic resonance and diffusion tensor imaging data was acquired in 7 children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were acquired at baseline and 1 month later following a 3-week constraint therapy regimen. A more negative baseline laterality index characterizing an atypical unilateral sensorimotor resting state network significantly correlated with an improvement in the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure score (r = -0.81, P = .03). A more unilateral network with decreased activity in the affected hemisphere was associated with greater improvements in clinical scores. Higher mean diffusivity in the posterior limb of the internal capsule of the affect tract correlated significantly with improvements in the Jebsen-Taylor score (r = -0.83, P = .02). Children with more compromised networks and tracts improved the most following constraint therapy. © The Author(s) 2015.

  14. Bistability and chaos in the Taylor-Green dynamo.

    PubMed

    Yadav, Rakesh K; Verma, Mahendra K; Wahi, Pankaj

    2012-03-01

    Using direct numerical simulations, we study dynamo action under Taylor-Green forcing for a magnetic Prandtl number of 0.5. We observe bistability with weak- and strong-magnetic-field branches. Both the dynamo branches undergo subcritical dynamo transition. We also observe a host of dynamo states including constant, periodic, quasiperiodic, and chaotic magnetic fields. One of the chaotic states originates through a quasiperiodic route with phase locking, while the other chaotic attractor appears to follow the Newhouse-Ruelle-Takens route to chaos. We also observe intermittent transitions between quasiperiodic and chaotic states for a given Taylor-Green forcing.

  15. Engaging cervical spinal cord networks to re-enable volitional control of hand function in tetraplegic patients

    PubMed Central

    Lu, Daniel C.; Edgerton, V. Reggie; Modaber, Morteza; AuYong, Nicholas; Morikawa, Erika; Zdunowski, Sharon; Sarino, Melanie E.; Nuwer, Marc R.; Roy, Roland R.; Gerasimenko, Yury

    2016-01-01

    Background Paralysis of the upper-limbs from spinal cord injury results in an enormous loss of independence in an individual’s daily life. Meaningful improvement in hand function is rare after one year of tetraparesis. Therapeutic developments that result in even modest gains in hand volitional function will significantly impact the quality of life for patients afflicted with high cervical injury. The ability to neuromodulate the lumbosacral spinal circuitry via epidural stimulation in regaining postural function and volitional control of the legs has been recently shown. A key question is whether a similar neuromodulatory strategy can be used to improve volitional motor control of the upper-limbs, i.e., performance of motor tasks considered to be less “automatic” than posture and locomotion. In this study, the effects of cervical epidural stimulation on hand function are characterized in subjects with chronic cervical cord injury. Objective Herein we show that epidural stimulation can be applied to the chronic injured human cervical spinal cord to promote volitional hand function. Methods and results Two subjects implanted with an cervical epidural electrode array demonstrated improved hand strength (approximately three-fold) and volitional hand control in the presence of epidural stimulation. Conclusions The present data are sufficient to suggest that hand motor function in individuals with chronic tetraplegia can be improved with cervical cord neuromodulation and thus should be comprehensively explored as a possible clinical intervention. PMID:27198185

  16. Evaluation of the kinesthetic sense and function of the hand in early period in operated cervical disc hernia.

    PubMed

    Kara, Býlge; Yildirim, Yücel; Karadýbak, Dýdem; Acar, Umýt

    2006-06-01

    A prospective study made into cervical disc hernias. To determine the kinesthetic sense and hand functions, which are important for the patients with cervical disc hernia to return to work life and daily activities that need skill. Neurosurgical department. Data Symptoms in cervical disc hernias and hand functions are affected depending on long-term pain. The evaluation of the hand is essential in assessing the patients' overall recovery and ability to return to daily activities and work life. Thirty-four patients with cervical disc hernia, who were operated on, were included in the study. Eight different test positions in the assessment of the hand's kinesthetic sense and hand function sort (HFS) in the evaluation of the hand function were applied. The disability levels of the patients were determined with The Neck Pain and Disability Scale, on the preoperative and postoperative discharge day and in the postoperative second month. Patients were divided into groups according to the side involved. In the evaluation of the kinesthetic test of the hand, only in the postoperative second month was a significant difference observed between the 1, 2, 3, and 4 test positions of the right side of the groups. On the other hand, no significant difference was found between the groups in the assessment of the hand function. In the measurement of hand functions and disability levels, strong and important correlations were determined. An early assessment of the hand's kinesthetic sense and function is instrumental in the patients' evaluation of recovery and resumption of work.

  17. Atmospheric negative corona discharge using a Taylor cone as liquid electrode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sekine, Ryuto; Shirai, Naoki; Uchida, Satoshi; Tochikubo, Fumiyoshi

    2012-10-01

    We examined characteristics of atmospheric negative corona discharge using liquid needle cathode. As a liquid needle cathode, we adopted Taylor cone with conical shape. A nozzle with inner diameter of 10 mm is filled with liquid, and a plate electrode is placed at 10 mm above the nozzle. By applying a dc voltage between electrodes, Taylor cone is formed. To change the liquid property, we added sodium dodecyl sulfate to reduce the surface tension, sodium sulfate to increase the conductivity, and polyvinyl alcohol to increase the viscosity, in distilled water. The liquid, with high surface tension such as pure water could not form a Taylor cone. When we reduced surface tension, a Taylor cone was formed and the stable corona discharge was observed at the tip of the cone. When we increased viscosity, a liquid filament protruded from the solution surface was formed and corona discharge was observed along the filament at position 0.7-1.0 mm above from the tip of the cone. Increasing the conductivity resulted in the higher light intensity of corona and the lower corona onset voltage. When we use the metal needle electrode, the corona discharge depends on the voltage and the gap length. Using Taylor cone, different types of discharges were observed by changing the property of the liquid.

  18. Beyond linear fields: the Lie–Taylor expansion

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    The work extends the linear fields’ solution of compressible nonlinear magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) to the case where the magnetic field depends on superlinear powers of position vector, usually, but not always, expressed in Cartesian components. Implications of the resulting Lie–Taylor series expansion for physical applicability of the Dolzhansky–Kirchhoff (D–K) equations are found to be positive. It is demonstrated how resistivity may be included in the D–K model. Arguments are put forward that the D–K equations may be regarded as illustrating properties of nonlinear MHD in the same sense that the Lorenz equations inform about the onset of convective turbulence. It is suggested that the Lie–Taylor series approach may lead to valuable insights into other fluid models. PMID:28265187

  19. Effects of two-handed task training on upper limb function of chronic hemiplegic patients after stroke

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Byung Il; Song, Bo Kyoung; Joung, Sang Mi

    2017-01-01

    [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine whether two-handed task training is effective on motor learning of injured cerebral cortex activation and upper extremity function recovery after stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Two hemiplegic subjects participated in this study: one patient was affected on the dominant side of the body and the other was affected on the non-dominant side of the body, and both scored in the range of 58–66 in the Fugl-Meyer assessment. The excitability of the corticospinal tract and Manual Function Test were examined. [Results] The excitability of the corticospinal tract and the Manual Function Test showed significant differences in the activation of both sides of the cerebral cortex and in the variation in learning effect of upper extremity motor function recovery in patients with hemiplegic non-dominant hand (left). [Conclusion] The results suggested that two-handed task training had a different influence on dominant hand (right) and non-dominant hand (left) motor recovery. PMID:28210051

  20. Nature and significance of Austin-Taylor unconformity on western margin of east Texas basin

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Surles, M.A. Jr.

    1984-04-01

    The Taylor Marl unconformably overlies the Austin Chalk on the western margin of the East Texas basin. Along this contact, up to 275 ft (84 m) of upper Austin is missing in the Waco area and up to 450 ft (137 m) in Bell County. However, the Austin Chalk appears to have been more-or-less uniformly deposited throughout the study area. Apparently regional uplift caused a regression that terminated Austin deposition and was related to the erosion of the upper Chalk. While the unconformity is areally extensive, slightly angular, and accounts for a relatively long period of time, the mechanism ofmore » erosion that caused the unconformity is still uncertain. Erosion was terminated by the deposition of the lower Taylor Marl. Taylor A, the lowermost subdivision of the lower Taylor, was deposited in a near-shore environment that was highly variable. Of particular interest is the relationship of this unconformity to structure and probably to oil occurrence in the Austin Chalk in McLennan and Falls Counties. Major Austin fracturing, which apparently does not extend into the Taylor in Falls County, clearly indicates that structure in the Chalk, at least in part, antedates Taylor deposition. Oil occurrence in the Chalk is clearly related to fracturing and probably is localized by post-Austin-pre-Taylor fracture systems.« less

  1. Eye-hand preference in schizophrenia: sex differences and significance for hand function.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yi-Chia; Yang, Yen Kuang; Lee, I Hui; Lin, Keh-Chung; Jeffries, Keith J; Lee, Li-Ching

    2004-06-01

    Hand preference and eye dominance were investigated in 73 (30 women, 43 men) schizophrenic patients and 71 (30 women, 41 men) healthy controls. There were significantly more schizophrenic patients and normal controls who were significantly right-hand dominant. However, schizophrenic patients showed a significant excess of left-eye dominance relative to controls (65.8% vs 29.6%; Odds Ratio= 4.75, p< .001). In addition, female schizophrenic patients showed a higher rate of nonright (either left or inconsistent) eye dominance (80%) than male schizophrenic patients (55.8%) and controls (33.3%). Analysis of hand performance on the Purdue Pegboard Test indicated that schizophrenic patients who showed crossed eye-hand dominance scored higher than did patients without crossed eye-hand dominance.

  2. Functional magnetic resonance imaging exploration of combined hand and speech movements in Parkinson's disease.

    PubMed

    Pinto, Serge; Mancini, Laura; Jahanshahi, Marjan; Thornton, John S; Tripoliti, Elina; Yousry, Tarek A; Limousin, Patricia

    2011-10-01

    Among the repertoire of motor functions, although hand movement and speech production tasks have been investigated widely by functional neuroimaging, paradigms combining both movements have been studied less so. Such paradigms are of particular interest in Parkinson's disease, in which patients have specific difficulties performing two movements simultaneously. In 9 unmedicated patients with Parkinson's disease and 15 healthy control subjects, externally cued tasks (i.e., hand movement, speech production, and combined hand movement and speech production) were performed twice in a random order and functional magnetic resonance imaging detected cerebral activations, compared to the rest. F-statistics tested within-group (significant activations at P values < 0.05, familywise error corrected), between-group, and between-task comparisons (regional activations significant at P values < 0.001, uncorrected, with cluster size > 10 voxels). For control subjects, the combined task activations comprised the sum of those obtained during hand movement and speech production performed separately, reflecting the neural correlates of performing movements sharing similar programming modalities. In patients with Parkinson's disease, only activations underlying hand movement were observed during the combined task. We interpreted this phenomenon as patients' potential inability to recruit facilitatory activations while performing two movements simultaneously. This lost capacity could be related to a functional prioritization of one movement (i.e., hand movement), in comparison with the other (i.e., speech production). Our observation could also reflect the inability of patients with Parkinson's disease to intrinsically engage the motor coordination necessary to perform a combined task. Copyright © 2011 Movement Disorder Society.

  3. Quantification of functional hand grip using electromyography and inertial sensor-derived accelerations: clinical implications.

    PubMed

    Martin-Martin, Jaime; Cuesta-Vargas, Antonio I

    2014-12-11

    Assessing hand injury is of great interest given the level of involvement of the hand with the environment. Knowing different assessment systems and their limitations generates new perspectives. The integration of digital systems (accelerometry and electromyography) as a tool to supplement functional assessment allows the clinician to know more about the motor component and its relation to movement. Therefore, the purpose of this study was the kinematic and electromyography analysis during functional hand movements. Ten subjects carried out six functional movements (terminal pinch, termino-lateral pinch, tripod pinch, power grip, extension grip and ball grip). Muscle activity (hand and forearm) was measured in real time using electromyograms, acquired with the Mega ME 6000, whilst acceleration was measured using the AcceleGlove. Electrical activity and acceleration variables were recorded simultaneously during the carrying out of the functional movements. The acceleration outcome variables were the modular vectors of each finger of the hand and the palm. In the electromyography, the main variables were normalized by the mean and by the maximum muscle activity of the thenar region, hypothenar, first interosseous dorsal, wrist flexors, carpal flexors and wrist extensors. Knowing muscle behavior allows the clinician to take a more direct approach in the treatment. Based on the results, the tripod grip shows greater kinetic activity and the middle finger is the most relevant in this regard. Ball grip involves most muscle activity, with the thenar region playing a fundamental role in hand activity. Relating muscle activation, movements, individual load and displacement offers the possibility to proceed with rehabilitation by individual component.

  4. Improvement in pinch function after surgical treatment for thumb in the plane of the hand.

    PubMed

    Iba, K; Wada, T; Aoki, M; Yamashita, T

    2012-02-01

    Thumb in the plane of the hand (TPH) is a congenital deformity in which the nail plane of the radial-most digit is parallel to that of other digits, but structurally the digit retains the characteristics of a thumb. Four hands from four patients were retrospectively diagnosed as having TPH, with the underlying congenital conditions being symbrachydactyly, cleft hand and constriction band syndrome. Thumb web-plasty was carried out in all hands; one required additional rotation osteotomy of the metacarpal. Postoperative hand function was markedly improved and pinch function was possible in all cases. In most cases of TPH, the thumb has the potential to act in opposition, indicating that a thumb web-plasty is worth considering as an initial procedure.

  5. Numerical Study on the Validity of the Taylor Hypothesis in Space Plasmas

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Perri, Silvia; Servidio, Sergio; Valentini, Francesco

    In situ heliospheric measurements allow us to resolve fluctuations as a function of frequency. A crucial point is to describe the power spectral density as a function of the wavenumber, in order to understand the energy cascade through the scales in terms of plasma turbulence theories. The most favorable situation occurs when the average wind speed is much higher than the phase speed of the plasma modes, equivalent to the fact that the fluctuations’ dynamical times are much longer than their typical crossing period through the spacecraft (frozen-in Taylor approximation). Using driven compressible Hall-magneothydrodynamics simulations, in which an “imaginary” spacecraftmore » flies across a time-evolving turbulence, here we explore the limitations of the frozen-in assumption. We find that the Taylor hypothesis is robust down to sub-proton scales, especially for flows with mean velocities typical of the fast solar wind. For slow mean flows (i.e., speeds of the order of the Alfvèn speed) power spectra are subject to an amplitude shift throughout the scales. At small scales, when dispersive decorrelation mechanisms become significant, the frozen-in assumption is generally violated, in particular for k -vectors almost parallel to the average magnetic field. A discussion in terms of the spacetime autocorrelation function is proposed. These results might be relevant for the interpretation of the observations, in particular for existing and future space missions devoted to very high-resolution measurements.« less

  6. The synergic effects of mirror therapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation for hand function in stroke patients.

    PubMed

    Yun, Gi Jeong; Chun, Min Ho; Park, Ji Young; Kim, Bo Ryun

    2011-06-01

    To investigate the synergic effects of mirror therapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for hand function in stroke patients. Sixty patients with hemiparesis after stroke were included (41 males and 19 females, average age 63.3 years). Twenty patients had NMES applied and simultaneously underwent mirror therapy. Twenty patients had NMES applied only, and twenty patients underwent mirror therapy only. Each treatment was done five days per week, 30 minutes per day, for three weeks. NMES was applied on the surface of the extensor digitorum communis and extensor pollicis brevis for open-hand motion. Muscle tone, Fugl-Meyer assessment, and power of wrist and hand were evaluated before and after treatment. There were significant improvements in the Fugl-Meyer assessment score in the wrist, hand and coordination, as well as power of wrist and hand in all groups after treatment. The mirror and NMES group showed significant improvements in the Fugl-Meyer scores of hand, wrist, coordination and power of hand extension compared to the other groups. However, the power of hand flexion, wrist flexion, and wrist extension showed no significant differences among the three groups. Muscle tone also showed no significant differences in the three groups. Our results showed that there is a synergic effect of mirror therapy and NMES on hand function. Therefore, a hand rehabilitation strategy combined with NMES and mirror therapy may be more helpful for improving hand function in stroke patients than NMES or mirror therapy only.

  7. Rayleigh-Taylor instability and mushroom-pattern formation in a two-component Bose-Einstein condensate

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sasaki, Kazuki; Suzuki, Naoya; Saito, Hiroki

    2009-12-15

    The Rayleigh-Taylor instability at the interface in an immiscible two-component Bose-Einstein condensate is investigated using the mean field and Bogoliubov theories. Rayleigh-Taylor fingers are found to grow from the interface and mushroom patterns are formed. Quantized vortex rings and vortex lines are then generated around the mushrooms. The Rayleigh-Taylor instability and mushroom-pattern formation can be observed in a trapped system.

  8. PEOPLE IN PHYSICS: Interview with Charles Taylor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pople, Conducted by Stephen

    1996-07-01

    Charles Taylor started his university teaching career at UMIST in 1948. In 1965 he became Professor and Head of the Department of Physics at University College, Cardiff. He was a Vice-President of the Institute of Physics from 1970 to 1975, and Professor of Experimental Physics at the Royal Institution from 1977 until 1989. Over the years, Professor Taylor has delighted audiences of all ages with his demonstration lectures, including the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures televised in 1971 and 1989. In 1986 he became the first recipient of the Royal Society's Michael Faraday Award for contributions to the public understanding of science. His many books include Exploring Music, The Art and Science of the Lecture Demonstration, and also the Oxford Children's Book of Science, co-written with interviewer Stephen Pople.

  9. Upper Limb Outcome Measures Used in Stroke Rehabilitation Studies: A Systematic Literature Review

    PubMed Central

    Santisteban, Leire; Térémetz, Maxime; Bleton, Jean-Pierre; Baron, Jean-Claude; Maier, Marc A.; Lindberg, Påvel G.

    2016-01-01

    Background Establishing which upper limb outcome measures are most commonly used in stroke studies may help in improving consensus among scientists and clinicians. Objective In this study we aimed to identify the most commonly used upper limb outcome measures in intervention studies after stroke and to describe domains covered according to ICF, how measures are combined, and how their use varies geographically and over time. Methods Pubmed, CinHAL, and PeDRO databases were searched for upper limb intervention studies in stroke according to PRISMA guidelines and477 studies were included. Results In studies 48different outcome measures were found. Only 15 of these outcome measures were used in more than 5% of the studies. The Fugl-Meyer Test (FMT)was the most commonly used measure (in 36% of studies). Commonly used measures covered ICF domains of body function and activity to varying extents. Most studies (72%) combined multiple outcome measures: the FMT was often combined with the Motor Activity Log (MAL), the Wolf Motor Function Test and the Action Research Arm Test, but infrequently combined with the Motor Assessment Scale or the Nine Hole Peg Test. Key components of manual dexterity such as selective finger movements were rarely measured. Frequency of use increased over a twelve-year period for the FMT and for assessments of kinematics, whereas other measures, such as the MAL and the Jebsen Taylor Hand Test showed decreased use over time. Use varied largely between countries showing low international consensus. Conclusions The results showed a large diversity of outcome measures used across studies. However, a growing number of studies used the FMT, a neurological test with good psychometric properties. For thorough assessment the FMT needs to be combined with functional measures. These findings illustrate the need for strategies to build international consensus on appropriate outcome measures for upper limb function after stroke. PMID:27152853

  10. Reconnaissance study of the Taylor Mountains pluton, southwestern Alaska

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Hudson, Travis L.; Miller, Marti L.; Klimasauskas, Edward P.; Layer, Paul W.

    2010-01-01

    The Taylor Mountains pluton is a Late Cretaceous to early Tertiary (median age 65 + or ? 2 Ma) epizonal, composite biotite granite stock located about 235 km (145 mi) northeast of Dillingham in southwestern Alaska. This 30 km2 (12 mi2) pluton has sharp and discordant contacts with hornfels that developed in Upper Cretaceous clastic sedimentary rocks of the Kuskokwim Group. The three intrusive phases in the Taylor Mountains pluton, in order of emplacement, are (1) porphyritic granite containing large K-feldspar phenocrysts in a coarse-grained groundmass, (2) porphyritic granite containing large K-feldspar and smaller, but still coarse, plagioclase, quartz, and biotite phenocrysts in a fine-grained groundmass, and (3) fine-grained, leucocratic, equigranular granite. The porphyritic granites have different emplacement histories, but similar compositions; averages are 69.43 percent SiO2, 1.62 percent CaO, 5.23 percent FeO+MgO, 3.11 percent Na2O, and 4.50 percent K2O. The fine-grained, equigranular granite is distinctly felsic compared to porphyritic granite; it averages 75.3 percent SiO2, 0.49 percent CaO, 1.52 percent FeO+MgO, 3.31 percent Na2O, and 4.87 percent K2O. Many trace elements including Ni, Cr, Sc, V, Ba, Sr, Zr, Y, Nb, La, Ce, Th, and Nd are strongly depleted in fine-grained equigranular granite. Trace elements are not highly enriched in any of the granites. Known hydrothermal alteration is limited to one tourmaline-quartz replacement zone in porphyritic granite. Mineral deposits in the Taylor Mountains area are primarily placer gold (plus wolframite, cassiterite, and cinnabar); sources for these likely include scattered veins in hornfels peripheral to the Taylor Mountain pluton. The granite magmas that formed the Taylor Mountains pluton are thought to represent melted continental crust that possibly formed in response to high heat flow in the waning stage of Late Cretaceous subduction beneath interior Alaska.

  11. Mirror therapy improves hand function in subacute stroke: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Yavuzer, Gunes; Selles, Ruud; Sezer, Nebahat; Sütbeyaz, Serap; Bussmann, Johannes B; Köseoğlu, Füsun; Atay, Mesut B; Stam, Henk J

    2008-03-01

    To evaluate the effects of mirror therapy on upper-extremity motor recovery, spasticity, and hand-related functioning of inpatients with subacute stroke. Randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded, 4-week trial, with follow-up at 6 months. Rehabilitation education and research hospital. A total of 40 inpatients with stroke (mean age, 63.2y), all within 12 months poststroke. Thirty minutes of mirror therapy program a day consisting of wrist and finger flexion and extension movements or sham therapy in addition to conventional stroke rehabilitation program, 5 days a week, 2 to 5 hours a day, for 4 weeks. The Brunnstrom stages of motor recovery, spasticity assessed by the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and hand-related functioning (self-care items of the FIM instrument). The scores of the Brunnstrom stages for the hand and upper extremity and the FIM self-care score improved more in the mirror group than in the control group after 4 weeks of treatment (by 0.83, 0.89, and 4.10, respectively; all P<.01) and at the 6-month follow-up (by 0.16, 0.43, and 2.34, respectively; all P<.05). No significant differences were found between the groups for the MAS. In our group of subacute stroke patients, hand functioning improved more after mirror therapy in addition to a conventional rehabilitation program compared with a control treatment immediately after 4 weeks of treatment and at the 6-month follow-up, whereas mirror therapy did not affect spasticity.

  12. Real-time and wearable functional electrical stimulation system for volitional hand motor function control using the electromyography bridge method

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Hai-peng; Bi, Zheng-yang; Zhou, Yang; Zhou, Yu-xuan; Wang, Zhi-gong; Lv, Xiao-ying

    2017-01-01

    Voluntary participation of hemiplegic patients is crucial for functional electrical stimulation therapy. A wearable functional electrical stimulation system has been proposed for real-time volitional hand motor function control using the electromyography bridge method. Through a series of novel design concepts, including the integration of a detecting circuit and an analog-to-digital converter, a miniaturized functional electrical stimulation circuit technique, a low-power super-regeneration chip for wireless receiving, and two wearable armbands, a prototype system has been established with reduced size, power, and overall cost. Based on wrist joint torque reproduction and classification experiments performed on six healthy subjects, the optimized surface electromyography thresholds and trained logistic regression classifier parameters were statistically chosen to establish wrist and hand motion control with high accuracy. Test results showed that wrist flexion/extension, hand grasp, and finger extension could be reproduced with high accuracy and low latency. This system can build a bridge of information transmission between healthy limbs and paralyzed limbs, effectively improve voluntary participation of hemiplegic patients, and elevate efficiency of rehabilitation training. PMID:28250759

  13. Surfactants and the Rayleigh-Taylor instability of Couette type flows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Frenkel, A. L.; Halpern, D.; Schweiger, A. S.

    2011-11-01

    We study the Rayleigh-Taylor instability of slow Couette- type flows in the presence of insoluble surfactants. It is known that with zero gravity, the surfactant makes the flow unstable to longwave disturbances in certain regions of the parameter space; while in other parametric regions, it reinforces the flow stability (Frenkel and Halpern 2002). Here, we show that in the latter parametric sectors, and when the (gravity) Bond number Bo is below a certain threshold value, the Rayleigh-Taylor instability is completely stabilized for a finite interval of Ma, the (surfactant) Marangoni number: MaL Ma2, and also for MaL functions of the Bond number. We note that (for an interval of the Bond number) there are two distinct criticalities with nonzero (and distinct) critical wavenumbers.

  14. Effect on Non-Newtonian Rheology on Mixing in Taylor-Couette Flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cagney, Neil; Balabani, Stavroula

    2017-11-01

    Mixing processes within many industry applications are strongly affected by the rheology of the working fluid. This is particularly relevant for pharmaceutical, food and waste treatment industries, where the working fluids are often strongly non-Newtonian, and significant variations in rheology between batches may occur. We approach the question of how rheology affects mixing by focussing on a the classical case of Taylor-Couette flow, which exhibits a number of instabilities and flow regimes as a function of Reynolds number. We examine Taylor-Couette flow generated for a range of aqueous solutions of xantham gum or corn starch, such that the rheology varies from shear-thinning to shear-thickening. For each case, we measure the power consumption using a torque meter and the flow field using high speed, time-resolved Particle-Image Velocimetry. The mixing characteristics are quantified using a number of Lagrangian and Eulerian approaches, including the coarse grained density method and vortex strength. By comparing these metrics to the power number, we discuss how the mixing efficiency (ratio of mixing effectiveness to power input) varies with the flow index of the fluid.

  15. Introduction to Density Functional Theory: Calculations by Hand on the Helium Atom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baseden, Kyle A.; Tye, Jesse W.

    2014-01-01

    Density functional theory (DFT) is a type of electronic structure calculation that has rapidly gained popularity. In this article, we provide a step-by-step demonstration of a DFT calculation by hand on the helium atom using Slater's X-Alpha exchange functional on a single Gaussian-type orbital to represent the atomic wave function. This DFT…

  16. Taylor Dispersion Analysis as a promising tool for assessment of peptide-peptide interactions.

    PubMed

    Høgstedt, Ulrich B; Schwach, Grégoire; van de Weert, Marco; Østergaard, Jesper

    2016-10-10

    Protein-protein and peptide-peptide (self-)interactions are of key importance in understanding the physiochemical behavior of proteins and peptides in solution. However, due to the small size of peptide molecules, characterization of these interactions is more challenging than for proteins. In this work, we show that protein-protein and peptide-peptide interactions can advantageously be investigated by measurement of the diffusion coefficient using Taylor Dispersion Analysis. Through comparison to Dynamic Light Scattering it was shown that Taylor Dispersion Analysis is well suited for the characterization of protein-protein interactions of solutions of α-lactalbumin and human serum albumin. The peptide-peptide interactions of three selected peptides were then investigated in a concentration range spanning from 0.5mg/ml up to 80mg/ml using Taylor Dispersion Analysis. The peptide-peptide interactions determination indicated that multibody interactions significantly affect the PPIs at concentration levels above 25mg/ml for the two charged peptides. Relative viscosity measurements, performed using the capillary based setup applied for Taylor Dispersion Analysis, showed that the viscosity of the peptide solutions increased with concentration. Our results indicate that a viscosity difference between run buffer and sample in Taylor Dispersion Analysis may result in overestimation of the measured diffusion coefficient. Thus, Taylor Dispersion Analysis provides a practical, but as yet primarily qualitative, approach to assessment of the colloidal stability of both peptide and protein formulations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. 43 CFR 2091.7-2 - Segregative effect and opening: Taylor Grazing Act.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 43 Public Lands: Interior 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Segregative effect and opening: Taylor Grazing Act. 2091.7-2 Section 2091.7-2 Public Lands: Interior Regulations Relating to Public Lands... LAWS AND RULES Segregation and Opening of Lands § 2091.7-2 Segregative effect and opening: Taylor...

  18. The effects of resistance training on muscle strength, joint pain, and hand function in individuals with hand osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Magni, Nicoló Edoardo; McNair, Peter John; Rice, David Andrew

    2017-06-13

    Hand osteoarthritis is a common condition characterised by joint pain and muscle weakness. These factors are thought to contribute to ongoing disability. Some evidence exists that resistance training decreases pain, improves muscle strength, and enhances function in people with knee and hip osteoarthritis. However, there is currently a lack of consensus regarding its effectiveness in people with hand osteoarthritis. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to establish whether resistance training in people with hand osteoarthritis increases grip strength, decreases joint pain, and improves hand function. Seven databases were searched from 1975 until July 1, 2016. Randomised controlled trials were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used to assess studies' methodological quality. The Grade of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system was adopted to rate overall quality of evidence. Suitable studies were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. Five studies were included with a total of 350 participants. The majority of the training programs did not meet recommended intensity, frequency, or progression criteria for muscle strengthening. There was moderate-quality evidence that resistance training does not improve grip strength (mean difference = 1.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) = -0.84, 3.54; I 2  = 50%; p = 0.23 ). Low-quality evidence showed significant improvements in joint pain (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -0.23; 95% CI = -0.42, -0.04; I 2  = 0%; p = 0.02) which were not clinically relevant. Low-quality evidence demonstrated no improvements in hand function following resistance training (SMD = -0.1; 95% CI = -0.33, 0.13; I 2  = 28%; p = 0.39). There is no evidence that resistance training has a significant effect on grip strength or hand function in people with hand osteoarthritis. Low-quality evidence suggests it has a small, clinically

  19. Hand disorders, hand function, and activities of daily living in elderly men with type 2 diabetes.

    PubMed

    Cederlund, Ragnhild I; Thomsen, Niels; Thrainsdottir, Soley; Eriksson, Karl-Fredrik; Sundkvist, Göran; Dahlin, Lars B

    2009-01-01

    This study aimed to examine hand disorders, symptoms, overall hand function, activities of daily living (ADLs), and life satisfaction in elderly men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and normal glucose tolerance (NGT). Subjects were interviewed and evaluated with a battery of clinical and laboratory tests, including hand assessment, and a questionnaire. HbA1c differed between groups (highest in DM, especially in long-term DM). Limited joint motion (LJM), for example, prayer sign and Dupuytren's contracture, was most common in individuals with DM, followed by individuals with IGT, as compared to those with NGT. Vibrotactile sense was impaired symmetrically in the index and little fingers in DM. However, there were no differences for sensibility, dexterity, grip strength, and cold intolerance between groups. Individuals with long-term (>15 years) DM were more affected regarding sensibility and ADL than individuals with short-term DM, who had more sleep disturbances. ADL difficulties were less among IGT subjects. Vibrotactile sense showed correlations with Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test and static two-point discrimination. Dupuytren's contracture and impaired vibrotactile sense in finger pulps occurred in patients with DM but not in those with IGT, although LJM occurred in both IGT and DM patients. A longer duration of DM was associated with more severe neuropathy and ADL difficulties. Life satisfaction was high, and hand disorders did not have a significant impact on ADL.

  20. Compression of an Accelerated Taylor State in SSX

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shrock, J. E.; Suen-Lewis, E. M.; Barbano, L. J.; Kaur, M.; Schaffner, D. A.; Brown, M. R.

    2017-10-01

    In the Swarthmore Spheromak Experiment (SSX), compact toroidal plasmas are launched from a plasma gun and evolve into minimum energy twisted Taylor states. The plumes initially have a velocity 40 km/s, density 0.4 ×1016 cm-3 , and proton temperature 20 eV . After formation, the plumes are accelerated by pulsed pinch coils with rise times τ1 / 4 = (π / 2) √{ LC } less than 1 μ s and currents Ipeak =V0 / Z =V0 /√{ L / C } on the order of 104 A. The accelerated Taylor States are abruptly stagnated in a copper flux conserver, and over the course of t < 10 μ s, adiabatic compression is observed. The magnetothermodynamics of this compression do not appear to be dictated by the MHD equation of state d / dt (P /nγ) = 0 . Rather, the compression appears to evolve according to the Chew-Goldberger-Low (CGL) double adiabatic model. CGL theory presents two equations of state, one corresponding with particle motion perpendicular to magnetic field in a plasma, the other to particle motion parallel to the field. We observe Taylor state compression most in agreement with the parallel equation of state: d / dt (P∥B2 /n3) = 0 . DOE ARPA-E ALPHA Program.

  1. Increased functional connectivity between cortical hand areas and praxis network associated with training-related improvements in non-dominant hand precision drawing.

    PubMed

    Philip, Benjamin A; Frey, Scott H

    2016-07-01

    Chronic forced use of the non-dominant left hand yields substantial improvements in the precision and quality of writing and drawing. These changes may arise from increased access by the non-dominant (right) hemisphere to dominant (left) hemisphere mechanisms specialized for end-point precision control. To evaluate this prediction, 22 healthy right-handed adults underwent resting state functional connectivity (FC) MRI scans before and after 10 days of training on a left hand precision drawing task. 89% of participants significantly improved left hand speed, accuracy, and smoothness. Smoothness gains were specific to the trained left hand and persistent: 6 months after training, 71% of participants exhibited above-baseline movement smoothness. Contrary to expectations, we found no evidence of increased FC between right and left hemisphere hand areas. Instead, training-related improvements in left hand movement smoothness were associated with increased FC between both sensorimotor hand areas and a left-lateralized parieto-prefrontal network implicated in manual praxis. By contrast, skill retention at 6 months was predicted by changes including decreased FC between the representation of the trained left hand and bilateral sensorimotor, parietal, and premotor cortices, possibly reflecting consolidation and a disengagement of early learning processes. These data indicate that modest amounts of training (<200min total) can induce substantial, persistent improvements the precision and quality of non-dominant hand control in healthy adults, supported by strengthened connectivity between bilateral sensorimotor hand areas and a left-lateralized parieto-prefrontal praxis network. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. The influence of functional electrical stimulation on hand motor recovery in stroke patients: a review.

    PubMed

    Quandt, Fanny; Hummel, Friedhelm C

    2014-01-01

    Neuromuscular stimulation has been used as one potential rehabilitative treatment option to restore motor function and improve recovery in patients with paresis. Especially stroke patients who often regain only limited hand function would greatly benefit from a therapy that enhances recovery and restores movement. Multiple studies investigated the effect of functional electrical stimulation on hand paresis, the results however are inconsistent. Here we review the current literature on functional electrical stimulation on hand motor recovery in stroke patients. We discuss the impact of different parameters such as stage after stoke, degree of impairment, spasticity and treatment protocols on the functional outcome. Importantly, we outline the results from recent studies investigating the cortical effects elicited by functional electrical stimulation giving insights into the underlying mechanisms responsible for long-term treatment effects. Bringing together the findings from present research it becomes clear that both, treatment outcomes as well as the neurophysiologic mechanisms causing functional recovery, vary depending on patient characteristics. In order to develop unified treatment guidelines it is essential to conduct homogenous studies assessing the impact of different parameters on rehabilitative success.

  3. The influence of functional electrical stimulation on hand motor recovery in stroke patients: a review

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Neuromuscular stimulation has been used as one potential rehabilitative treatment option to restore motor function and improve recovery in patients with paresis. Especially stroke patients who often regain only limited hand function would greatly benefit from a therapy that enhances recovery and restores movement. Multiple studies investigated the effect of functional electrical stimulation on hand paresis, the results however are inconsistent. Here we review the current literature on functional electrical stimulation on hand motor recovery in stroke patients. We discuss the impact of different parameters such as stage after stoke, degree of impairment, spasticity and treatment protocols on the functional outcome. Importantly, we outline the results from recent studies investigating the cortical effects elicited by functional electrical stimulation giving insights into the underlying mechanisms responsible for long-term treatment effects. Bringing together the findings from present research it becomes clear that both, treatment outcomes as well as the neurophysiologic mechanisms causing functional recovery, vary depending on patient characteristics. In order to develop unified treatment guidelines it is essential to conduct homogenous studies assessing the impact of different parameters on rehabilitative success. PMID:25276333

  4. Transplantation of severed digits to forearm stump for restoration of partial hand function.

    PubMed

    Cheng, G L; Pan, D D; Qu, Z Y

    1985-10-01

    Three cases of mutilating injury of the distal end of the forearm, wrist, and palm treated by transplantation of severed digits to the forearm stump are reported. Follow-up examinations made at 1 year and 4 months to 31/2 years postoperatively revealed fair sensory and motor functions. The functional result is better than that obtained after Krukenberg's operation or prosthesis fitting, and is comparable to that of "hand" reconstruction by autotransplantation of toes. Since this procedure can fulfill the basic requirements of hand function by reconstruction, namely, good sensibility; basic motor functions of pinching, grasping, and powerful gripping; and acceptable outward appearance, and can be accomplished in a one-stage operation without sacrificing toes, it should be considered as first choice whenever a suitable case is encountered.

  5. Nonlinear stability of Taylor's vortex array

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lin, S. P.; Tobak, M.

    1987-01-01

    It is proved that the two-dimensional Taylor vortex array, which is an exact unsteady solution of the Navier-Stokes equation, is globally and asymptotically stable in the mean with respect to three-dimensional periodic disturbances. A time-dependent bound on the decay rate of the kinetic energy of disturbances is obtained.

  6. Influence of body heat content on hand function during prolonged cold exposures.

    PubMed

    Flouris, A D; Cheung, S S; Fowles, J R; Kruisselbrink, L D; Westwood, D A; Carrillo, A E; Murphy, R J L

    2006-09-01

    We examined the influence of 1) prior increase [preheating (PHT)], 2) increase throughout [heating (HT)], and 3) no increase [control (Con)] of body heat content (H(b)) on neuromuscular function and manual dexterity of the hands during a 130-min exposure to -20 degrees C (coldEx). Ten volunteers randomly underwent three passive coldEx, incorporating a 10-min moderate-exercise period at the 65th min while wearing a liquid conditioning garment (LCG) and military arctic clothing. In PHT, 50 degrees C water was circulated in the LCG before coldEx until core temperature was increased by 0.5 degrees C. In HT, participants regulated the inlet LCG water temperature throughout coldEx to subjective comfort, while the LCG was not operating in Con. Thermal comfort, rectal temperature, mean skin temperature, mean finger temperature (T(fing)), change in H(b) (DeltaH(b)), rate of body heat storage, Purdue pegboard test, finger tapping, handgrip, maximum voluntary contraction, and evoked twitch force of the first dorsal interosseus muscle were recorded. Results demonstrated that, unlike in HT and PHT, thermal comfort, rectal temperature, mean skin temperature, twitch force, maximum voluntary contraction, and finger tapping declined significantly in Con. In contrast, T(fing) and Purdue pegboard test remained constant only in HT. Generalized estimating equations demonstrated that DeltaH(b) and T(fing) were associated over time with hand function, whereas no significant association was detected for rate of body heat storage. It is concluded that increasing H(b) not only throughout but also before a coldEx is effective in maintaining hand function. In addition, we found that the best indicator of hand function is DeltaH(b) followed by T(fing).

  7. Hand Matters: Left-Hand Gestures Enhance Metaphor Explanation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Argyriou, Paraskevi; Mohr, Christine; Kita, Sotaro

    2017-01-01

    Research suggests that speech-accompanying gestures influence cognitive processes, but it is not clear whether the gestural benefit is specific to the gesturing hand. Two experiments tested the "(right/left) hand-specificity" hypothesis for self-oriented functions of gestures: gestures with a particular hand enhance cognitive processes…

  8. Correlation of pain relief with physical function in hand osteoarthritis: randomized controlled trial post hoc analysis.

    PubMed

    Barthel, H Richard; Peniston, John H; Clark, Michael B; Gold, Morris S; Altman, Roy D

    2010-01-01

    Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended for the relief of pain associated with hand osteoarthritis (OA) but do not alter the underlying structural changes that contribute to impaired physical function. The current analysis examined the relationship of pain relief with measures of function and global rating of disease in patients with hand OA. This was a combined analysis of 2 prospective, randomized, double-blind, 8-week, multicenter, parallel-group studies comparing diclofenac sodium 1% gel with placebo gel (vehicle) in patients with radiographically confirmed mild to moderate hand OA. Patients (n = 783) aged > or = 40 years applied diclofenac sodium 1% gel (2 g) or vehicle to each hand 4 times daily for 8 weeks. Outcome measures included pain intensity assessed on a 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS); the Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN) subscales for pain, stiffness, and physical function (100-mm VAS); and a global rating of disease (100-mm VAS). Change in VAS pain intensity from baseline to week 8 was categorized (<0%, 0%-<15%, 15%-<30%, 30%-<50%, 50%-<70%, and > or = 70%) without regard to treatment and compared in each category with the mean change from baseline in each AUSCAN subindex and the global rating of disease. Pearson correlations between changes in outcome measures from baseline to week 8 were calculated. Changes in VAS pain intensity were accompanied by similar changes in AUSCAN scores and global rating of disease. Pearson correlations confirmed significant associations (P < 0.001) between change in VAS pain intensity and changes in AUSCAN pain (correlation coefficient [r] = 0.81), AUSCAN function (r = 0.75), AUSCAN stiffness (r = 0.66), and global rating of disease (r = 0.76). Pain relief correlated with improvements in physical function, stiffness, and global rating of disease in patients with hand OA, irrespective of treatment. This suggests that pain or anticipation of pain inhibits physical function and

  9. Functional asymmetries in early learning during right, left, and bimanual performance in right-handed subjects.

    PubMed

    Aznárez-Sanado, Maite; Fernández-Seara, Maria A; Loayza, Francis R; Pastor, Maria A

    2013-03-01

    To elucidate differences in activity and connectivity during early learning due to the performing hand. Twenty right-handed subjects were recruited. The neural correlates of explicit visuospatial learning executed with the right, the left hand, and bimanually were investigated using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Connectivity analyses were carried out using the psychophysiological interactions model, considering right and left anterior putamen as index regions. A common neural network was found for the three tasks during learning. Main activity increases were located in posterior cingulate cortex, supplementary motor area, parietal cortex, anterior putamen, and cerebellum (IV-V), whereas activity decrements were observed in prefrontal regions. However, the left hand task showed a greater recruitment of left hippocampal areas when compared with the other tasks. In addition, enhanced connectivity between the right anterior putamen and motor cortical and cerebellar regions was found for the left hand when compared with the right hand task. An additional recruitment of brain regions and increased striato-cortical and striato-cerebellar functional connections is needed when early learning is performed with the nondominant hand. In addition, access to brain resources during learning may be directed by the dominant hand in the bimanual task. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  10. 43 CFR 4170.2-1 - Penal provisions under the Taylor Grazing Act.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 43 Public Lands: Interior 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Penal provisions under the Taylor Grazing Act. 4170.2-1 Section 4170.2-1 Public Lands: Interior Regulations Relating to Public Lands (Continued...-EXCLUSIVE OF ALASKA Penalties § 4170.2-1 Penal provisions under the Taylor Grazing Act. Under section 2 of...

  11. Taylor O(h³) Discretization of ZNN Models for Dynamic Equality-Constrained Quadratic Programming With Application to Manipulators.

    PubMed

    Liao, Bolin; Zhang, Yunong; Jin, Long

    2016-02-01

    In this paper, a new Taylor-type numerical differentiation formula is first presented to discretize the continuous-time Zhang neural network (ZNN), and obtain higher computational accuracy. Based on the Taylor-type formula, two Taylor-type discrete-time ZNN models (termed Taylor-type discrete-time ZNNK and Taylor-type discrete-time ZNNU models) are then proposed and discussed to perform online dynamic equality-constrained quadratic programming. For comparison, Euler-type discrete-time ZNN models (called Euler-type discrete-time ZNNK and Euler-type discrete-time ZNNU models) and Newton iteration, with interesting links being found, are also presented. It is proved herein that the steady-state residual errors of the proposed Taylor-type discrete-time ZNN models, Euler-type discrete-time ZNN models, and Newton iteration have the patterns of O(h(3)), O(h(2)), and O(h), respectively, with h denoting the sampling gap. Numerical experiments, including the application examples, are carried out, of which the results further substantiate the theoretical findings and the efficacy of Taylor-type discrete-time ZNN models. Finally, the comparisons with Taylor-type discrete-time derivative model and other Lagrange-type discrete-time ZNN models for dynamic equality-constrained quadratic programming substantiate the superiority of the proposed Taylor-type discrete-time ZNN models once again.

  12. Applicability of Taylor's hypothesis in thermally driven turbulence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Abhishek; Verma, Mahendra K.

    2018-04-01

    In this paper, we show that, in the presence of large-scale circulation (LSC), Taylor's hypothesis can be invoked to deduce the energy spectrum in thermal convection using real-space probes, a popular experimental tool. We perform numerical simulation of turbulent convection in a cube and observe that the velocity field follows Kolmogorov's spectrum (k-5/3). We also record the velocity time series using real-space probes near the lateral walls. The corresponding frequency spectrum exhibits Kolmogorov's spectrum (f-5/3), thus validating Taylor's hypothesis with the steady LSC playing the role of a mean velocity field. The aforementioned findings based on real-space probes provide valuable inputs for experimental measurements used for studying the spectrum of convective turbulence.

  13. Simulation of spatially evolving turbulence and the applicability of Taylor's hypothesis in compressible flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lee, Sangsan; Lele, Sanjiva K.; Moin, Parviz

    1992-01-01

    For the numerical simulation of inhomogeneous turbulent flows, a method is developed for generating stochastic inflow boundary conditions with a prescribed power spectrum. Turbulence statistics from spatial simulations using this method with a low fluctuation Mach number are in excellent agreement with the experimental data, which validates the procedure. Turbulence statistics from spatial simulations are also compared to those from temporal simulations using Taylor's hypothesis. Statistics such as turbulence intensity, vorticity, and velocity derivative skewness compare favorably with the temporal simulation. However, the statistics of dilatation show a significant departure from those obtained in the temporal simulation. To directly check the applicability of Taylor's hypothesis, space-time correlations of fluctuations in velocity, vorticity, and dilatation are investigated. Convection velocities based on vorticity and velocity fluctuations are computed as functions of the spatial and temporal separations. The profile of the space-time correlation of dilatation fluctuations is explained via a wave propagation model.

  14. Reactivating Neural Circuits with Clinically Accessible Stimulation to Restore Hand Function in Persons with Tetraplegia

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-09-01

    AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-16-1-0395 TITLE: Reactivating Neural Circuits with Clinically Accessible Stimulation to Restore Hand Function in...estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data...Clinically Accessible Stimulation to Restore Hand Function in Persons with Tetraplegia 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S

  15. Ethics, organ donation and tax: a reply to Quigley and Taylor.

    PubMed

    Lippert-Rasmussen, Kasper; Petersen, Thomas Søbirk

    2012-08-01

    A national opt-out system of post-mortem donation of scarce organs is preferable to an opt-in system. Unfortunately, the former system is not always feasible, and so in a recent JME article we canvassed the possibility of offering people a tax break for opting-in as a way of increasing the number of organs available for donation under an opt-in regime. Muireann Quigley and James Stacey Taylor criticize our proposal. Roughly, Quigley argues that our proposal is costly and, hence, is unlikely to be implemented, while Taylor contests our response to a Titmuss-style objection to our scheme. In response to Quigley, we note that our proposal's main attraction lies in gains not reflected in the figures presented by Quigley and that the mere fact that it is costly does not imply that it is unfeasible. In response to Taylor, we offer some textual evidence in support of our interpretation of Taylor and responds to his favoured interpretation of the Titmuss-style objection that many people seem to want to donate to charities even if they can deduct their donations from their income tax. Finally, we show why our views do not commit us to endorsing a free organ-market.

  16. Process development of starch hydrolysis using mixing characteristics of Taylor vortices.

    PubMed

    Masuda, Hayato; Horie, Takafumi; Hubacz, Robert; Ohmura, Naoto; Shimoyamada, Makoto

    2017-04-01

    In food industries, enzymatic starch hydrolysis is an important process that consists of two steps: gelatinization and saccharification. One of the major difficulties in designing the starch hydrolysis process is the sharp change in its rheological properties. In this study, Taylor-Couette flow reactor was applied to continuous starch hydrolysis process. The concentration of reducing sugar produced via enzymatic hydrolysis was evaluated by varying operational variables: rotational speed of the inner cylinder, axial velocity (reaction time), amount of enzyme, and initial starch content in the slurry. When Taylor vortices were formed in the annular space, efficient hydrolysis occurred because Taylor vortices improved the mixing of gelatinized starch with enzyme. Furthermore, a modified inner cylinder was proposed, and its mixing performance was numerically investigated. The modified inner cylinder showed higher potential for enhanced mixing of gelatinized starch and the enzyme than the conventional cylinder.

  17. Tree ecophysiology research at Taylor Woods

    Treesearch

    Thomas E. Kolb; Nate G. McDowell

    2008-01-01

    We summarize the key findings of tree ecophysiology studies performed at Taylor Woods, Fort Valley Experimental Forest, Arizona between 1994 and 2003 that provide unique insight on impacts of long-term stand density management in ponderosa pine forests on tree water relations, leaf gas exchange, radial growth, leaf area-to-sapwood-area ratio, growth efficiency, leaf...

  18. Experimental investigation of liquid-liquid system drop size distribution in Taylor-Couette flow and its application in the CFD simulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farzad, Reza; Puttinger, Stefan; Pirker, Stefan; Schneiderbauer, Simon

    Liquid-liquid systems are widely used in the several industries such as food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical and petroleum. Drop size distribution (DSD) plays a key role as it strongly affects the overall mass and heat transfer in the liquid-liquid systems. To understand the underlying mechanisms single drop breakup experiments have been done by several researchers in the Taylor-Couette flow; however, most of those studies concentrate on the laminar flow regime and therefore, there is no sufficient amount of data in the case of in turbulent flows. The well-defined pattern of the Taylor-Couette flow enables the possibility to investigate DSD as a function of the local fluid dynamic properties, such as shear rate, which is in contrast to more complex devices such as stirred tank reactors. This paper deals with the experimental investigation of liquid-liquid DSD in Taylor-Couette flow. From high speed camera images we found a simple correlation for the Sauter mean diameter as a function of the local shear employing image processing. It is shown that this correlation holds for different oil-in-water emulsions. Finally, this empirical correlation for the DSD is used as an input data for a CFD simulation to compute the local breakup of individual droplets in a stirred tank reactor.

  19. Three-dimensional single-mode nonlinear ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yan, R.; Aluie, H.; Laboratory for Laser Energetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14627

    The nonlinear evolution of the single-mode ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability is studied in three dimensions. As the mode wavelength approaches the cutoff of the linear spectrum (short-wavelength modes), it is found that the three-dimensional (3D) terminal bubble velocity greatly exceeds both the two-dimensional (2D) value and the classical 3D bubble velocity. Unlike in 2D, the 3D short-wavelength bubble velocity does not saturate. The growing 3D bubble acceleration is driven by the unbounded accumulation of vorticity inside the bubble. The vorticity is transferred by mass ablation from the Rayleigh-Taylor spikes to the ablated plasma filling the bubble volume.

  20. Fitting a hand-glove prosthesis to enhance the reconstructed mutilated hand.

    PubMed

    Leow, M E; Kour, A K; Pereira, B P; Pho, R W

    1998-03-01

    Microsurgical reconstruction of the severely mutilated hand aimed at improving prehensile functions often does not address the esthetic aspects of the hand. The poor appearance of the reconstructed hand affects its active display and use. A hand-glove prosthesis may be prescribed in this instance to enhance the overall form and function of the mutilated hand. We reviewed 16 cases of mutilating hand injuries in which surgical reconstructions were performed and the patients were subsequently fitted with a hand-glove prosthesis to augment the outcome. An improved appearance was achieved in all patients fitted with the prosthesis. The patients' sense of confidence was also enhanced, which in turn promoted the active and open use of the reconstructed hands. While prescribed primarily to improve the appearance of the reconstructed hands, these prostheses were documented to enhance the physical hand functions in 11 cases by increasing the span of the hand and providing an opposable post and a palmar base for holding and for anchorage. The prosthesis enhanced assistive functions of the reconstructed hands and freed the contralateral normal hand for use in bimanual activities, such as holding a wallet and taking out money, supporting a note pad for writing, and holding a plate at buffet receptions. At the 18-month follow-up visit, 13 (87%) of the patients continued to use their prosthesis. Wear and tear were problems associated with the frequent use of the prosthesis. The expected life span of the prosthesis with daily use ranged from 2 to 3 years. All the patients acknowledged that the prosthesis played a role in their rehabilitation and that it helped them to overcome the initial psychological trauma and to come to terms with their physical loss.

  1. A Wearable Multi-Site System for NMES-Based Hand Function Restoration.

    PubMed

    Crema, Andrea; Malesevic, Nebojsa; Furfaro, Ivan; Raschella, Flavio; Pedrocchi, Alessandra; Micera, Silvestro

    2018-02-01

    Reaching and grasping impairments significantly affect the quality of life for people who have experienced a stroke or spinal cord injury. The long-term well-being of patients varies greatly according to the restorable residual capabilities. Electrical stimulation could be a promising solution to restore motor functions in these conditions, but its use is not clinically widespread. Here, we introduce the HandNMES, an electrode array (EA) for neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) aimed at grasp training and assistance. The device was designed to deliver electrical stimulation to extrinsic and intrinsic hand muscles. Six independent EAs, positioned on the user forearm and hand, deliver NMES pulses originating from an external stimulator equipped with demultiplexers for interfacing with a large number of electrodes. The garment was designed to be adaptable to user needs and anthropometric characteristics; size, shape, and contact materials can be customized, and stimulation characteristics such as intensity of stimulation and virtual electrode location, and size can be adjusted. We performed extensive tests with nine healthy subjects showing the efficacy of the HandNMES in terms of stimulation performance and personalization. Because encouraging results were achieved, in the coming months, the HandNMES device will be tested in pilot clinical trials.

  2. Functional connectivity analysis of brain hemodynamics during rubber hand illusion.

    PubMed

    Arizono, Naoki; Kondo, Toshiyuki

    2015-08-01

    Embodied cognition has been eagerly studied in the recent neuroscience research field. In particular, hand ownership has been investigated through the rubber hand illusion (RHI). Most of the research measured the brain activities during the RHI by using EEG, fMRI, etc., however, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has not yet been utilized. Here we attempt to measure the brain activities during the RHI task with NIRS, and analyze the functional connectivity so as to understand the relationship between NIRS features and the state of embodied cognition. For the purpose, we developed a visuo-tactile stimulator in the study. As a result, we found that the subjects felt illusory experience showed significant peaks of oxy-Hb in both prefrontal and premotor cortices during RHI. Furthermore, we confirmed a reliable causality connection from right prefrontal to right premotor cortex. This result suggests that the RHI is associated with the neural circuits underlying motor control. Therefore, we considered that the RHI with the functional connectivity analysis will become an appropriate model investigating a biomarker for neurorehabilitation, and the diagnosis of the mental disorders.

  3. The relationship of dystonia and choreoathetosis with activity, participation and quality of life in children and youth with dyskinetic cerebral palsy.

    PubMed

    Monbaliu, Elegast; De Cock, Paul; Mailleux, Lisa; Dan, Bernard; Feys, Hilde

    2017-03-01

    To relate dystonia and choreoathetosis with activity, participation and quality of life (QOL) in children and youth with dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy (CP). Fifty-four participants with dyskinetic CP (mean age 14y6m, SD 4y2m, range 6-22y) were included. The Dyskinesia Impairment Scale (DIS) was used to evaluate dystonia and choreoathetosis. Activity, participation and quality of life (QOL) were assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS), the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTT), the ABILHAND-Kids Questionnaire (ABIL-K), the Life Habits Kids (LIFE-H) and the Quality of Life Questionnaire for children with CP (CP-QOL). Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (r s ) was used to assess the relationship between the movement disorders and activity, participation and QOL measures. Significant negative correlations were found between dystonia and the activity scales with Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (r s ) varying between -0.65 (95% CI = -0.78 to -0.46) and -0.71 (95% CI = -0,82 to -0.55). Correlations were also found with the LIFE-H (r s  = -0.43; 95%CI = -0.64 to -0.17) and the CP-QOL (r s  = -0.32; 95%CI = -0.56 to -0.03). As far as choreoathetosis is concerned, no or only weak relationships were found with the activity, participation and quality of life scales. This cross-sectional study is the first to examine the relationship of dystonia and choreoathetosis in dyskinetic CP with the level of activity, participation and QOL. The results revealed dystonia has a higher impact on activity, participation and quality of life than choreoathetosis. These findings seem to suggest it is necessary to first focus on dystonia reducing intervention strategies and secondly on choreoathetosis. Copyright © 2016 European Paediatric Neurology Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Measuring the validation of assessing the non-dominant-hand function by ALSFRS-r in Chinese ALS patients.

    PubMed

    Hu, Fangfang; Jin, Jiaoting; Jia, Rui; Xiang, Li; Qi, Huaguang; Zhao, Xing; Dang, Jingxia

    2017-12-01

    ALSFRS-r is a widely accepted rating scale for measuring the global function of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients, but we found some limitations of ALSFRS-r in assessing the function of non-dominant hand in Chinese ALS patients. We reviewed 95 ALS patients who expressed upper-limb symptoms at first visit and analyzed the ALSFRS-r score and subscale. In both upper limb involved patients, the ALSFRS-r had no difference between dominant-hand and non-dominant-hand onset groups (39.15±5.55 vs 38.0±5.91, p=0.477). But in only one upper limb involved patients, the ALSFRS-r score in non-dominant-hand onset patients was higher than dominant-hand onset patients (43.94±3.44 vs 40.87±4.42, p<0.05), especially in item of handwriting, cutting food and handing utensils (3.56±0.89 vs 2.2±1.27 p=0.001, 3.44±1.03 vs 1.8±1.21 p=0.000). When the item of cutting food and handing utensils was replaced by using food bowl and chopsticks to assess the function of non-dominant-hand, the modified ALSFRS-r score was significantly lower than original ALSFRS-r (43.94±3.44 vs 42.88±3.07 p=0.001), the progression rate was slower (0.81±0.63 vs 0.64±0.63, p=0.001). So, for Chinese ALS patients, using food bowl and chopsticks should replace the item of cutting food and handling utensils to assess the non-dominant-hand function, especially in non-dominant-hand onset patients. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  5. MusicGlove: motivating and quantifying hand movement rehabilitation by using functional grips to play music.

    PubMed

    Friedman, Nizan; Chan, Vicky; Zondervan, Danny; Bachman, Mark; Reinkensmeyer, David J

    2011-01-01

    People with stroke typically must perform much of their hand exercise at home without professional assistance as soon as two weeks after the stroke. Without feedback and encouragement, individuals often lose motivation to practice using the affected hand, and this disuse contributes to further declines in hand function. We developed the MusicGlove as a way to facilitate and motivate at home practice of hand movement. This low-cost device uses music as an interactive and motivating medium to guide hand exercise and to quantitatively assess hand movement recovery. It requires the user to practice functional movements, including pincer grip, key-pinch grip, and finger-thumb opposition, by using those movements to play different musical notes, played along to songs displayed by an interactive computer game. We report here the design of the glove and the results of a single-session experiment with 10 participants with chronic stroke. We found that the glove is well suited for use by people with an impairment level quantified by a Box and Blocks score of at least around 7; that the glove can be used to obtain a measure of hand dexterity (% of notes hit) that correlates strongly with the Box and Blocks score; and that the incorporation of music into training significantly improved both objective measures of hand motor performance and self-ratings of motivation for training in the single session.

  6. Aristotle's illusion reveals interdigit functional somatosensory alterations in focal hand dystonia.

    PubMed

    Tinazzi, Michele; Marotta, Angela; Fasano, Alfonso; Bove, Francesco; Bentivoglio, Anna Rita; Squintani, Giovanna; Pozzer, Lara; Fiorio, Mirta

    2013-03-01

    In focal hand dystonia, the cortical somatosensory representation of the fingers is abnormal, with overlapping receptive fields and reduced interdigit separation. These abnormalities are associated with deficits in sensory perception, as previously demonstrated by applying tactile stimuli to one finger at a time. What is still unknown is whether the sensory deficits can be observed when tactile perception involves more than one finger. To address this issue, we applied 'Aristotle's illusion' to 15 patients with focal hand dystonia, 15 patients with dystonia not affecting the hand (blepharospasm and cervical dystonia) and 15 healthy control subjects. In this illusion, one object touching the contact point of two crossed fingertips is perceived as two objects by a blindfolded subject. The same object placed between two parallel fingertips is correctly perceived as one. The illusory doubling sensation is because of the fact that the contact point between the crossed fingers consists of non-adjacent and functionally unrelated skin regions, which usually send sensory signals to separate spots in the somatosensory cortex. In our study, participants were touched by one sphere between the second-third digits, the second-fourth digits and the fourth-fifth digits of both hands, either in crossed or in parallel position, and had to refer whether they felt one or two stimuli. The percentage of 'two stimuli' responses was an index of the illusory doubling. Both healthy control subjects and dystonic patients presented Aristotle's illusion when the fingers were crossed. However, patients with focal hand dystonia presented a significant reduction of the illusion when the sphere was placed between the crossed fourth and fifth digits of the affected hand. This reduction correlated with the severity of motor disease at the fingers. Similar findings were not observed in non-hand dystonia and control groups. The reduction of Aristotle's illusion in non-affected fingers and its

  7. Advection and Taylor-Aris dispersion in rivulet flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Al Mukahal, F. H. H.; Duffy, B. R.; Wilson, S. K.

    2017-11-01

    Motivated by the need for a better understanding of the transport of solutes in microfluidic flows with free surfaces, the advection and dispersion of a passive solute in steady unidirectional flow of a thin uniform rivulet on an inclined planar substrate driven by gravity and/or a uniform longitudinal surface shear stress are analysed. Firstly, we describe the short-time advection of both an initially semi-infinite and an initially finite slug of solute of uniform concentration. Secondly, we describe the long-time Taylor-Aris dispersion of an initially finite slug of solute. In particular, we obtain the general expression for the effective diffusivity for Taylor-Aris dispersion in such a rivulet, and discuss in detail its different interpretations in the special case of a rivulet on a vertical substrate.

  8. Nonideal Rayleigh–Taylor mixing

    PubMed Central

    Lim, Hyunkyung; Iwerks, Justin; Glimm, James; Sharp, David H.

    2010-01-01

    Rayleigh–Taylor mixing is a classical hydrodynamic instability that occurs when a light fluid pushes against a heavy fluid. The two main sources of nonideal behavior in Rayleigh–Taylor (RT) mixing are regularizations (physical and numerical), which produce deviations from a pure Euler equation, scale invariant formulation, and nonideal (i.e., experimental) initial conditions. The Kolmogorov theory of turbulence predicts stirring at all length scales for the Euler fluid equations without regularization. We interpret mathematical theories of existence and nonuniqueness in this context, and we provide numerical evidence for dependence of the RT mixing rate on nonideal regularizations; in other words, indeterminacy when modeled by Euler equations. Operationally, indeterminacy shows up as nonunique solutions for RT mixing, parametrized by Schmidt and Prandtl numbers, in the large Reynolds number (Euler equation) limit. Verification and validation evidence is presented for the large eddy simulation algorithm used here. Mesh convergence depends on breaking the nonuniqueness with explicit use of the laminar Schmidt and Prandtl numbers and their turbulent counterparts, defined in terms of subgrid scale models. The dependence of the mixing rate on the Schmidt and Prandtl numbers and other physical parameters will be illustrated. We demonstrate numerically the influence of initial conditions on the mixing rate. Both the dominant short wavelength initial conditions and long wavelength perturbations are observed to play a role. By examination of two classes of experiments, we observe the absence of a single universal explanation, with long and short wavelength initial conditions, and the various physical and numerical regularizations contributing in different proportions in these two different contexts. PMID:20615983

  9. Conditional sampling technique to test the applicability of the Taylor hypothesis for the large-scale coherent structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hussain, A. K. M. F.

    1980-01-01

    Comparisons of the distributions of large scale structures in turbulent flow with distributions based on time dependent signals from stationary probes and the Taylor hypothesis are presented. The study investigated an area in the near field of a 7.62 cm circular air jet at a Re of 32,000, specifically having coherent structures through small-amplitude controlled excitation and stable vortex pairing in the jet column mode. Hot-wire and X-wire anemometry were employed to establish phase averaged spatial distributions of longitudinal and lateral velocities, coherent Reynolds stress and vorticity, background turbulent intensities, streamlines and pseudo-stream functions. The Taylor hypothesis was used to calculate spatial distributions of the phase-averaged properties, with results indicating that the usage of the local time-average velocity or streamwise velocity produces large distortions.

  10. Taylor instability in the shock layer on a Jovian atmosphere entry probe.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Compton, D. L.

    1972-01-01

    Investigation of the Taylor instability relative to the dynamical instability whose presence in the shock layer on a spacecraft entering the Jovian atmosphere is to be expected because of the difference in velocity across the shear layer. Presented calculations show that the Taylor instability at the interface between shock-heated freestream gas and ablation products is inconsequential in comparison to the shear layer instability.

  11. Evaluation of Patients' Satisfaction and Functional Outcome of Dorsal Hand Unit Reconstruction in Burn Patients in Shiraz, Southern Iran.

    PubMed

    Mohammadi, Ali Akbar; Foroutan, Ali; Mohammadi, Soheil; Zardosht, Mitra

    2018-06-13

    The aim of this study was to assess patients' satisfaction and functional outcome of dorsal hand unit reconstruction in burn patients in Shiraz, southern Iran.From September 2013 to February 2017, 11 patients (15 hands) with hand aesthetic complaint who were unhappy with their hand appearance were included for dorsal hand unit reconstruction. Under general anesthesia and tourniquet control, the burned tissue on dorsal surface of the hands was excised and a thick partial thickness skin graft was used for coverage, whereas the fingers were fixed by sutures to the palm. After 1 year, the five-points scale was used for evaluation of patients' satisfaction regarding the five major activities considered for hand function before and after operation. The mean age of the patients was 25.8 ± 5.17 years. The skin grafts were well taken. Six (40%) and eight patients (53%) reported the result of operation as completely satisfied and satisfied, respectively. Dorsal hand unit reconstruction in patients with dorsal hand contracture and significant dorsal scar was shown to simultaneously improve the function and aesthetic outcome of the surgery.

  12. Shallow Sub-Permafrost Groundwater Systems In A Buried Fjord: Taylor Valley, Antarctica

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Foley, N.; Tulaczyk, S. M.; Auken, E.; Mikucki, J.

    2014-12-01

    The McMurdo Dry Valleys (MDV), Antarctica, represent a unique geologic setting where permanent lakes, ephemeral streams, and subglacial waters influence surface hydrology in a cold polar desert. Past research suggested that the MDV are underlain by several hundreds of meters of permafrost. Here, we present data collected from an Airborne EM (AEM) resistivity sensor flown over the MDV during the 2011-12 austral summer. A focus of our survey was over the Taylor Glacier where saline, iron-rich subglacial fluid releases at the glacier snout at a feature known as Blood Falls, and over Taylor Valley, where a series of isolated lakes lie between Taylor Glacier and the Ross Sea. Our data show that in Taylor Valley there are extensive areas of low resistivity, interpreted as hypersaline brines, beneath a relatively thin layer of high resistivity material, interpreted as dry- or ice-cemented permafrost. These hypersaline brines remain liquid at temperatures well below 0°C due to their salinity. They appear to be contained within the sedimentary fill deposited in Taylor Valley when it was still a fjord. This brine system continues up valley and has a subglacial extension beneath Taylor Glacier, where it may provide the source that feeds Blood Falls. By categorizing the resistivity measurements according to surficial land cover, we are able to distinguish between ice, permafrost, lake water, and seawater based on characteristic resistivity distributions. Furthermore, this technique shows that areas of surface permafrost become increasingly conductive (brine-filled) with depth, whereas the large lakes exhibit taliks that extend through the entire thickness of the permafrost. The subsurface brines represent a large, unstudied and potentially connected hydrogeologic system, in which subsurface flows may help transfer water and nutrients between lakes in the MDV and into the Ross Sea. Such a system is a potential habitat for extremophile life, similar to that already detected in

  13. Variations in cerebral organization as a function of handedness, hand posture in writing, and sex.

    PubMed

    Levy, J; Reid, M

    1978-06-01

    During the past century, it has become increasingly apparent that there is a great deal of variation in the direction and degree of cerebral lateralization, a plurality of people having language and related functions strongly specialized to the left hemisphere and visuospatial functions strongly specialized to the right, with substantial minorities manifesting various deviations from this pattern. In particular, in 35%-50% of sinistrals and 1%-10% of dextrals, the right hemisphere is specialized for linguistic skills, and in some unknown fraction of the two handedness groups, verbal and/or spatial abilities are, to varying extents, bilateralized. Levy (1973) suggested that the hand posture adopted during writing might be an index of the lateral relationship between the dominant writing hand and the language hemisphere, a normal posture indicating contralateral language specialization, and an inverted posture indicating ipsilateral language specialization. In the present investigation, two tachistoscopic tests of cerebral lateralization, one measuring spatial functions and one measuring verbal function, were administered to 73 subjects classified by handedness, hand posture during writing, and sex. Among both dextral and sinistral subjects with a normal writing posture, language and spatial functions were specialized to the contralateral and ipsilateral hemispheres, respectively, and lateral differentiation of the brain was strong. The reverse was seen in subjects having an inverted writing posture. In all groups, females were less laterally differentiated than males. In 70 out of 73 subjects, the direction of cerebral laterization was accurately predicted by handedness and hand posture. The 3 subjects (2 females and 1 male) who failed to manifest the predicted relations were all left-handers having an inverted hand posture . In this group, lateral differentiation was so weak that the reliability of the tachistoscopic tests was reduced, and we attribute these three

  14. Three-dimensional single-mode nonlinear ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yan, R.; Betti, R.; Sanz, J.

    The nonlinear evolution of the single-mode ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability is studied in three dimensions. As the mode wavelength approaches the cutoff of the linear spectrum (short-wavelength modes), it is found that the three-dimensional (3D) terminal bubble velocity greatly exceeds both the two-dimensional (2D) value and the classical 3D bubble velocity. Unlike in 2D, the 3D short-wavelength bubble velocity does not saturate. The growing 3D bubble acceleration is driven by the unbounded accumulation of vorticity inside the bubble. As a result, the vorticity is transferred by mass ablation from the Rayleigh-Taylor spikes to the ablated plasma filling the bubble volume.

  15. A numerical simulation of finite-length Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Streett, C. L.; Hussaini, M. Y.

    1987-01-01

    The processes leading to laminar-turbulent transition in finite-channel-length Taylor-Couette flow are investigated analytically, solving the unsteady incompressible Navier-Stokes equations by spectral-collocation methods. A time-split algorithm, implementable in both axisymmetric and fully three-dimensional time-accurate versions, and an algorithm based on the staggered-mesh discretization of Bernardi and Maday (1986) are described in detail, and results obtained by applying the axisymmetric version of the first algorithm and a steady-state version of the second are presented graphically and compared with published experimental data. The feasibility of full three-dimensional simulations of the progression through chaotic states to turbulence under the constraints of Taylor-Couette flow is demonstrated.

  16. A Taylor weak-statement algorithm for hyperbolic conservation laws

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Baker, A. J.; Kim, J. W.

    1987-01-01

    Finite element analysis, applied to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) problem classes, presents a formal procedure for establishing the ingredients of a discrete approximation numerical solution algorithm. A classical Galerkin weak-statement formulation, formed on a Taylor series extension of the conservation law system, is developed herein that embeds a set of parameters eligible for constraint according to specification of suitable norms. The derived family of Taylor weak statements is shown to contain, as special cases, over one dozen independently derived CFD algorithms published over the past several decades for the high speed flow problem class. A theoretical analysis is completed that facilitates direct qualitative comparisons. Numerical results for definitive linear and nonlinear test problems permit direct quantitative performance comparisons.

  17. Functional range of movement of the hand: declination angles to reachable space.

    PubMed

    Pham, Hai Trieu; Pathirana, Pubudu N; Caelli, Terry

    2014-01-01

    The measurement of the range of hand joint movement is an essential part of clinical practice and rehabilitation. Current methods use three finger joint declination angles of the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints. In this paper we propose an alternate form of measurement for the finger movement. Using the notion of reachable space instead of declination angles has significant advantages. Firstly, it provides a visual and quantifiable method that therapists, insurance companies and patients can easily use to understand the functional capabilities of the hand. Secondly, it eliminates the redundant declination angle constraints. Finally, reachable space, defined by a set of reachable fingertip positions, can be measured and constructed by using a modern camera such as Creative Senz3D or built-in hand gesture sensors such as the Leap Motion Controller. Use of cameras or optical-type sensors for this purpose have considerable benefits such as eliminating and minimal involvement of therapist errors, non-contact measurement in addition to valuable time saving for the clinician. A comparison between using declination angles and reachable space were made based on Hume's experiment on functional range of movement to prove the efficiency of this new approach.

  18. Ekman-Hartmann layer in a magnetohydrodynamic Taylor-Couette flow

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Szklarski, Jacek; Ruediger, Guenther

    2007-12-15

    We study magnetic effects induced by rigidly rotating plates enclosing a cylindrical magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Taylor-Couette flow at the finite aspect ratio H/D=10. The fluid confined between the cylinders is assumed to be liquid metal characterized by small magnetic Prandtl number, the cylinders are perfectly conducting, an axial magnetic field is imposed with Hartmann number Ha{approx_equal}10, and the rotation rates correspond to Reynolds numbers of order 10{sup 2}-10{sup 3}. We show that the end plates introduce, besides the well-known Ekman circulation, similar magnetic effects which arise for infinite, rotating plates, horizontally unbounded by any walls. In particular, there exists the Hartmannmore » current, which penetrates the fluid, turns in the radial direction, and together with the applied magnetic field gives rise to a force. Consequently, the flow can be compared with a Taylor-Dean flow driven by an azimuthal pressure gradient. We analyze the stability of such flows and show that the currents induced by the plates can give rise to instability for the considered parameters. When designing a MHD Taylor-Couette experiment, special care must be taken concerning the vertical magnetic boundaries so that they do not significantly alter the rotational profile.« less

  19. McMurdo LTER: streamflow measurements in Taylor Valley

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    McKnight, D.; House, H.; Von Guerard, P.

    1994-01-01

    Has established a stream gaging network for the three major lake basins in Taylor Valley. These data are critical for determining nutrient budgets for the lake ecosystems and for understanding physical factors controlling microbial mats in the streams.

  20. Lightcurve Analysis and Rotation Period Determination for Asteroids 1491 Balduinus and 2603 Taylor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Odden, Caroline E.; Cohen, Adam J.; Davis, Spencer; Eldracher, Emelie A.; Fitzgerald, Zachary T.; Jiang, Derek C.; Kozol, Eliana L.; Laurencin, Victoria L.; Meyer-Idzik, Benjamin D.; Pennington, Oliver; Philip, Reuben C.; Sanchez, Emily J.; Warren, Natalie J.; Klinglesmith, Daniel A.; Briggs, John W.

    2018-07-01

    Photometric observations of asteroids 1491 Balduinus and 2603 Taylor were made from 2017 December to 2018 February. 1491 Balduinus was found to have a rotational period 15.315 ± 0.003 h with amplitude 0.40 mag; 2603 Taylor was found to have rotational period 3.905 ± 0.001 h with amplitude 0.27 mag.

  1. The Mantle and Basalt-Crust Interaction Below the Mount Taylor Volcanic Field, New Mexico

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Schrader, Christian M.; Crumpler, Larry S.; Schmidt, Marick E.

    2010-01-01

    The Mount Taylor Volcanic Field (MTVF) lies on the Jemez Lineament on the southeastern margin of the Colorado Plateau. The field is centered on the Mt. Taylor composite volcano and includes Mesa Chivato to the NE and Grants Ridge to the WSW. MTVF magmatism spans approximately 3.8-1.5 Ma (K-Ar). Magmas are dominantly alkaline with mafic compositions ranging from basanite to hy-basalt and felsic compositions ranging from ne-trachyte to rhyolite. We are investigating the state of the mantle and the spatial and temporal variation in basalt-crustal interaction below the MTVF by examining mantle xenoliths and basalts in the context of new mapping and future Ar-Ar dating. The earliest dated magmatism in the field is a basanite flow south of Mt. Taylor. Mantle xenolith-bearing alkali basalts and basanites occur on Mesa Chivato and in the region of Mt. Taylor, though most basalts are peripheral to the main cone. Xenolith-bearing magmatism persists at least into the early stages of conebuilding. Preliminary examination of the mantle xenolith suite suggests it is dominantly lherzolitic but contains likely examples of both melt-depleted (harzburgitic) and melt-enriched (clinopyroxenitic) mantle. There are aphyric and crystal-poor hawaiites, some of which are hy-normative, on and near Mt. Taylor, but many of the more evolved MTVF basalts show evidence of complex histories. Mt. Taylor basalts higher in the cone-building sequence contain >40% zoned plagioclase pheno- and megacrysts. Other basalts peripheral to Mt. Taylor and at Grants Ridge contain clinopyroxene and plagioclase megacrysts and cumulate-textured xenoliths, suggesting they interacted with lower crustal cumulates. Among the questions we are addressing: What was the chemical and thermal state of the mantle recorded by the basaltic suites and xenoliths and how did it change with time? Are multiple parental basalts (Si-saturated vs. undersaturated) represented and, if so, what changes in the mantle or in the tectonic

  2. Frank Bursley Taylor - Forgotten Pioneer of Continental Drift.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Black, George W., Jr.

    1979-01-01

    Frank B. Taylor was an American geologist who specialized in the glacial geology of the Great Lakes. This article discusses his work on the Continental Drift theory, which preceeded the work of Alfred Wegener by a year and a half. (MA)

  3. CURTIS TAYLOR, PRESIDENT OF LINC RESEARCH CORP.

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2016-04-27

    CURTIS O. TAYLOR, PRESIDENT OF LINC RESEARCH CORP, (L), AND JEFF LINDNER, CHIEF ENGINEER, POSE WITH HARDWARE FOR THEIR PATENTED TECHNOLOGY, FLUID STRUCTURE COUPLING, WHICH USES SIMPLE PHYSICS TO DAMPEN POTENTIALLY HARMFUL SHAKING IN STRUCTURES. INSTALLATION OF THE FLUID STRUCTURE COUPLING TECHNOLOGY IN A BUILDING WILL TAKE PLACE IN SUMMER OF 2016.

  4. The cortical activation pattern by a rehabilitation robotic hand: a functional NIRS study

    PubMed Central

    Chang, Pyung-Hun; Lee, Seung-Hee; Gu, Gwang Min; Lee, Seung-Hyun; Jin, Sang-Hyun; Yeo, Sang Seok; Seo, Jeong Pyo; Jang, Sung Ho

    2014-01-01

    Introduction: Clarification of the relationship between external stimuli and brain response has been an important topic in neuroscience and brain rehabilitation. In the current study, using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), we attempted to investigate cortical activation patterns generated during execution of a rehabilitation robotic hand. Methods: Ten normal subjects were recruited for this study. Passive movements of the right fingers were performed using a rehabilitation robotic hand at a frequency of 0.5 Hz. We measured values of oxy-hemoglobin (HbO), deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR) and total-hemoglobin (HbT) in five regions of interest: the primary sensory-motor cortex (SM1), hand somatotopy of the contralateral SM1, supplementary motor area (SMA), premotor cortex (PMC), and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Results: HbO and HbT values indicated significant activation in the left SM1, left SMA, left PMC, and left PFC during execution of the rehabilitation robotic hand (uncorrected, p < 0.01). By contrast, HbR value indicated significant activation only in the hand somatotopic area of the left SM1 (uncorrected, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Our results appear to indicate that execution of the rehabilitation robotic hand could induce cortical activation. PMID:24570660

  5. Transcranial magnetic stimulation in mild to severe hemiparesis early after stroke: a proof of principle and novel approach to improve motor function

    PubMed Central

    Anjos, Sarah M.; Saposnik, Gustavo; Mello, Eduardo A.; Nagaya, Erina M.; Santos, Waldyr; Ferreiro, Karina N.; Melo, Eduardo S.; Reis, Felipe I.; Scaff, Milberto; Cohen, Leonardo G.

    2016-01-01

    Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the unaffected hemisphere can enhance function of the paretic hand in patients with mild motor impairment. Effects of low-frequency rTMS to the contralesional motor cortex at an early stage of mild to severe hemiparesis after stroke are unknown. In this pilot, randomized, double-blind clinical trial we compared the effects of low-frequency rTMS or sham rTMS as add-on therapies to outpatient customary rehabilitation, in 30 patients within 5–45 days after ischemic stroke, and mild to severe hand paresis. The primary feasibility outcome was compliance with the interventions. The primary safety outcome was the proportion of intervention-related adverse events. Performance of the paretic hand in the Jebsen–Taylor test and pinch strength were secondary outcomes. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, after ten sessions of treatment administered over 2 weeks and at 1 month after end of treatment. Baseline clinical features were comparable across groups. For the primary feasibility outcome, compliance with treatment was 100% in the active group and 94% in the sham group. There were no serious intervention-related adverse events. There were significant improvements in performance in the Jebsen–Taylor test (mean, 12.3% 1 month after treatment) and pinch force (mean, 0.5 Newtons) in the active group, but not in the sham group. Low-frequency rTMS to the contralesional motor cortex early after stroke is feasible, safe and potentially effective to improve function of the paretic hand, in patients with mild to severe hemiparesis. These promising results will be valuable to design larger randomized clinical trials. PMID:22173953

  6. The effect of crossflow on Taylor vortices: A model problem

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Otto, S. R.; Bassom, Andrew P.

    1993-01-01

    A number of practically relevant problems involving the impulsive motion or the rapid rotation of bodies immersed in fluid are susceptible to vortex-like instability modes. Depending upon the configuration of any particular problem the stability properties of any high-wavenumber vortices can take on one of two distinct forms. One of these is akin to the structure of Gortler vortices in boundary layer flows while the other is similar to the situation for classical Taylor vortices. Both the Gortler and Taylor problems have been extensively studied when crossflow effects are excluded from the underlying base flows. Recently, studies were made concerning the influence of crossflow on Gortler modes and a linearized stability analysis is used to examine crossflow properties for the Taylor mode. This work allows us to identify the most unstable vortex as the crossflow component increases and it is shown how, like the Gortler case, only a very small crossflow component is required in order to completely stabilize the flow. Our investigation forms the basis for an extension to the nonlinear problem and is of potential applicability to a range of pertinent flows.

  7. Taylor bubbles at high viscosity ratios: experiments and numerical simulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hewakandamby, Buddhika; Hasan, Abbas; Azzopardi, Barry; Xie, Zhihua; Pain, Chris; Matar, Omar

    2015-11-01

    The Taylor bubble is a single long bubble which nearly fills the entire cross section of a liquid-filled circular tube, often occurring in gas-liquid slug flows in many industrial applications, particularly oil and gas production. The objective of this study is to investigate the fluid dynamics of three-dimensional Taylor bubble rising in highly viscous silicone oil in a vertical pipe. An adaptive unstructured mesh modelling framework is adopted here which can modify and adapt anisotropic unstructured meshes to better represent the underlying physics of bubble rising and reduce computational effort without sacrificing accuracy. The numerical framework consists of a mixed control volume and finite element formulation, a `volume of fluid'-type method for the interface-capturing based on a compressive control volume advection method, and a force-balanced algorithm for the surface tension implementation. Experimental results for the Taylor bubble shape and rise velocity are presented, together with numerical results for the dynamics of the bubbles. A comparison of the simulation predictions with experimental data available in the literature is also presented to demonstrate the capabilities of our numerical method. EPSRC Programme Grant, MEMPHIS, EP/K0039761/1.

  8. The effects of mirror therapy on arm and hand function in subacute stroke in patients.

    PubMed

    Radajewska, Alina; Opara, Józef A; Kucio, Cezary; Błaszczyszyn, Monika; Mehlich, Krzysztof; Szczygiel, Jarosław

    2013-09-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mirror therapy on arm and hand function in subacute stroke in patients. The study included 60 hemiparetic right-handed patients after ischemic stroke 8-10 weeks after onset. They underwent stationary comprehensive rehabilitation in the rehabilitation centre. They were divided into two randomly assigned groups: mirror (n=30) and control (n=30). For both groups, two subgroups were created: one that included patients with right arm paresis (n=15) and the other that included patients with left arm paresis (n=15). The mirror group received an additional intervention: training with a mirror for 5 days/week, 2 sessions/day, for 21 days. Each single session lasted for 15 min. The control group (n=30) underwent a conventional rehabilitation program without mirror therapy. To evaluate self-care in performing activities of daily living, the Functional Index 'Repty' was used. To evaluate hand and arm function, the Frenchay Arm Test and the Motor Status Score were used. Measurements were performed twice: before and after 21 days of applied rehabilitation. No significant improvement in hand and arm function in both subgroups in Frenchay Arm Test and Motor Status Score scales was observed. However, there was a significant improvement in self-care of activities of daily living in the right arm paresis subgroup in the mirror group measured using the Functional Index 'Repty'. Mirror therapy improves self-care of activities of daily living for patients with right arm paresis after stroke.

  9. [Complex trauma of the hand].

    PubMed

    Pechlaner, S; Hussl, H

    1998-01-01

    The hand is very exposed to injuries in the daily man's work. The multiple functions of the hand are based on vitality, sensibility, motor function and stability. In severe hand injuries the functional results of the repair are often very poor. In a complex injury of the hand we are faced with the damage of the soft tissue and bone and the loss of vitality and function of the hand. The cause of hand injuries are mainly a crush trauma or the rotating saw. Basically, we recommend an extended primary repair. After the radical debridement we have to reconstruct the damaged structures. We start doing the osteosynthesis and stabilization of the joints. Thereafter, suturing of extensor and flexor tendons. Then, we do the microsurgical reconstructions of vessels and nerves. In case tendons and bones are exposed we have to cover the defect with a pedicled or a free flap. In a long ischemic time we have to change our concept and do the reconstruction of the vessels first. Our results in vitality and sensibility are listed. In the result of a complex hand injury each single functional restoration is very important. Therefore, it is necessary that severe hand injuries are treated at well established centres for hand surgery.

  10. Electromechanical hand incorporates touch sensors and trigger function

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dane, D. H.

    1970-01-01

    Electromechanical hand incorporates touch sensors, concealed fingers, and a structure that allows the hand to hold a tool on a flat surface. The hands can be mounted on most types of existing manipulators either directly or by means of modified mounting brackets.

  11. Singularities in water waves and Rayleigh-Taylor instability

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tanveer, S.

    1991-01-01

    Singularities in inviscid two-dimensional finite-amplitude water waves and inviscid Rayleigh-Taylor instability are discussed. For the deep water gravity waves of permanent form, through a combination of analytical and numerical methods, results describing the precise form, number, and location of singularities in the unphysical domain as the wave height is increased are presented. It is shown how the information on the singularity in the unphysical region has the same form as for deep water waves. However, associated with such a singularity is a series of image singularities at increasing distances from the physical plane with possibly different behavior. Furthermore, for the Rayleigh-Taylor problem of motion of fluid over a vacuum and for the unsteady water wave problem, integro-differential equations valid in the unphysical region are derived, and how these equations can give information on the nature of singularities for arbitrary initial conditions is shown.

  12. Boundary effects and the onset of Taylor vortices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rucklidge, A. M.; Champneys, A. R.

    2004-05-01

    It is well established that the onset of spatially periodic vortex states in the Taylor-Couette flow between rotating cylinders occurs at the value of Reynolds number predicted by local bifurcation theory. However, the symmetry breaking induced by the top and bottom plates means that the true situation should be a disconnected pitchfork. Indeed, experiments have shown that the fold on the disconnected branch can occur at more than double the Reynolds number of onset. This leads to an apparent contradiction: why should Taylor vortices set in so sharply at the Reynolds number predicted by the symmetric theory, given such large symmetry-breaking effects caused by the boundary conditions? This paper offers a generic explanation. The details are worked out using a Swift-Hohenberg pattern formation model that shares the same qualitative features as the Taylor-Couette flow. Onset occurs via a wall mode whose exponential tail penetrates further into the bulk of the domain as the driving parameter increases. In a large domain of length L, we show that the wall mode creates significant amplitude in the centre at parameter values that are O( L-2) away from the value of onset in the problem with ideal boundary conditions. We explain this as being due to a Hamiltonian Hopf bifurcation in space, which occurs at the same parameter value as the pitchfork bifurcation of the temporal dynamics. The disconnected anomalous branch remains O(1) away from the onset parameter since it does not arise as a bifurcation from the wall mode.

  13. THE VIOLATION OF THE TAYLOR HYPOTHESIS IN MEASUREMENTS OF SOLAR WIND TURBULENCE

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Klein, K. G.; Howes, G. G.; TenBarge, J. M.

    2014-08-01

    Motivated by the upcoming Solar Orbiter and Solar Probe Plus missions, qualitative and quantitative predictions are made for the effects of the violation of the Taylor hypothesis on the magnetic energy frequency spectrum measured in the near-Sun environment. The synthetic spacecraft data method is used to predict observational signatures of the violation for critically balanced Alfvénic turbulence or parallel fast/whistler turbulence. The violation of the Taylor hypothesis can occur in the slow flow regime, leading to a shift of the entire spectrum to higher frequencies, or in the dispersive regime, in which the dissipation range spectrum flattens at high frequencies.more » It is found that Alfvénic turbulence will not significantly violate the Taylor hypothesis, but whistler turbulence will. The flattening of the frequency spectrum is therefore a key observational signature for fast/whistler turbulence.« less

  14. Determination of the relationship between cognitive function and hand dexterity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Soysal Tomruk, Melda; Ozalevli, Sevgi; Dizdar, Gorkem; Narin, Selnur; Kilinc, Oguz

    2015-07-01

    Hand dexterity is important for daily living activities and can be related to cognitive functions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between cognitive dysfunction and hand dexterity in patients with COPD. 35 COPD patients and 36 healthy individuals were assessed. The Minnesota Hand Dexterity Test and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) were used for assessment of cognitive function and hand dexterity. Hand dexterity test scores and cognitive function of COPD patients' were significantly lower than the healthy group (p < 0.01). The MMSE scores were negatively correlated with hand dexterity scores in the COPD group (p < 0.05). There was a relationship between cognitive function and hand dexterity in the patients with COPD; however, hand dexterity did not alter according to hypoxemia severity. Hand dexterity which is important in daily living activities should be evaluated in greater detail with further studies in COPD patients.

  15. Application of Taylor's series to trajectory propagation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stanford, R. H.; Berryman, K. W.; Breckheimer, P. J.

    1986-01-01

    This paper describes the propagation of trajectories by the application of the preprocessor ATOMCC which uses Taylor's series to solve initial value problems in ordinary differential equations. Comparison of the results obtained with those from other methods are presented. The current studies indicate that the ATOMCC preprocessor is an easy, yet fast and accurate method for generating trajectories.

  16. Taylor Proposes Five-Year Child-Care Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Glen

    Senator Glen Taylor of Minnesota proposed a five-year child-care program for the purposes of encouraging employer-sponsored child care and increasing by 53,000 the number of children in low-income families who were covered. This report lists central features of the program, which include: (1) tax incentives which employers can use when they build…

  17. Stability of compressible Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kao, Kai-Hsiung; Chow, Chuen-Yen

    1991-01-01

    Compressible stability equations are solved using the spectral collocation method in an attempt to study the effects of temperature difference and compressibility on the stability of Taylor-Couette flow. It is found that the Chebyshev collocation spectral method yields highly accurate results using fewer grid points for solving stability problems. Comparisons are made between the result obtained by assuming small Mach number with a uniform temperature distribution and that based on fully incompressible analysis.

  18. Maintained hand function and forearm bone health 14 months after an in-home virtual-reality videogame hand telerehabilitation intervention in an adolescent with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

    PubMed

    Golomb, Meredith R; Warden, Stuart J; Fess, Elaine; Rabin, Bryan; Yonkman, Janell; Shirley, Bridget; Burdea, Grigore C

    2011-03-01

    Virtual reality videogames can be used to motivate rehabilitation, and telerehabilitation can be used to improve access to rehabilitation. These uses of technology to improve health outcomes are a burgeoning area of rehabilitation research. So far, there is a lack of reports of long-term outcomes of these types of interventions. The authors report a 15-year-old boy with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and epilepsy because of presumed perinatal stroke who improved his plegic hand function and increased his plegic forearm bone health during a 14-month virtual reality videogame hand telerehabilitation intervention. A total of 14 months after the intervention ended, repeat evaluation demonstrated maintenance of both increased hand function and forearm bone health. The implications of this work for the future of rehabilitation in children with neurological disabilities are discussed in this article.

  19. 33 CFR 207.185 - Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation. 207.185 Section 207.185 Navigation and... § 207.185 Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation...

  20. 33 CFR 207.185 - Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation. 207.185 Section 207.185 Navigation and... § 207.185 Taylors Bayou, Tex., Beaumont Navigation District Lock; use, administration, and navigation...

  1. Short-time Lyapunov exponent analysis and the transition to chaos in Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vastano, John A.; Moser, Robert D.

    1991-01-01

    The physical mechanism driving the weakly chaotic Taylor-Couette flow is investigated using the short-time Liapunov exponent analysis. In this procedure, the transition from quasi-periodicity to chaos is studied using direct numerical 3D simulations of axially periodic Taylor-Couette flow, and a partial Liapunov exponent spectrum for the flow is computed by simultaneously advancing the full solution and a set of perturbations. It is shown that the short-time Liapunov exponent analysis yields more information on the exponents and dimension than that obtained from the common Liapunov exponent calculations. Results show that the chaotic state studied here is caused by a Kelvin-Helmholtz-type instability of the outflow boundary jet of Taylor vortices.

  2. Taylorism, Tylerism, and Performance Indicators: Defending the Indefensible?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Helsby, Gill; Saunders, Murray

    1993-01-01

    Explores the antecedents to the growing interest in the use of educational performance indicators. Discusses this issue in relation to the work of economist F. W. Taylor and evaluator Ralph Tyler. Describes a five-year project that demonstrates the promise of teacher-developed performance indicators. (CFR)

  3. Taylor dispersion in premixed combustion: Questions from turbulent combustion answered for laminar flames

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Daou, Joel; Pearce, Philip; Al-Malki, Faisal

    2018-02-01

    We present a study of Taylor dispersion in premixed combustion and use it to clarify fundamental issues related to flame propagation in a flow field. In particular, simple analytical formulas are derived for variable density laminar flames with arbitrary Lewis number Le providing clear answers to important questions arising in turbulent combustion, when these questions are posed for the case of one-scale laminar parallel flows. Exploiting, in the context of a laminar Poiseuille flow model, a thick flame distinguished asymptotic limit for which the flow amplitude is large with the Reynolds number Re fixed, three main contributions are made. First, a link is established between Taylor dispersion [G. Taylor, Proc. R. Soc. London Ser. A 219, 186 (1953), 10.1098/rspa.1953.0139] and Damköhler's second hypothesis [G. Damköhler, Ber. Bunsen. Phys. Chem. 46, 601 (1940)] by describing analytically the enhancement of the effective propagation speed UT due to small flow scales. More precisely, it is shown that Damköhler's hypothesis is only partially correct for one-scale parallel laminar flows. Specifically, while the increase in UT due to the flow is shown to be directly associated with the increase in the effective diffusivity as suggested by Damköhler, our results imply that UT˜Re (for Re≫1 ) rather than UT˜√{Re} , as implied by Damköhler's hypothesis. Second, it is demonstrated analytically and confirmed numerically that, when UT is plotted versus the flow amplitude for fixed values of Re, the curve levels off to a constant value depending on Re. We may refer to this effect as the laminar bending effect as it mimics a similar bending effect known in turbulent combustion. Third, somewhat surprising implications associated with the dependence of UT and of the effective Lewis number Leeff on the flow are reported. For example, Leeff is found to vary from Le to Le-1 as Re varies from small to large values. Also, UT is found to be a monotonically increasing function

  4. Improving hand functional use in subjects with multiple sclerosis using a musical keyboard: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Gatti, Roberto; Tettamanti, Andrea; Lambiase, Simone; Rossi, Paolo; Comola, Mauro

    2015-06-01

    Playing an instrument implies neuroplasticity in different cerebral regions. This phenomenon has been described in subjects with stroke, suggesting that it could play a role in hand rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of playing a musical keyboard in improving hand function in subjects with multiple sclerosis. Nineteen hospitalized subjects were randomized in two groups: nine played a turned-on musical keyboard by sequences of fingers movements (audio feedback present) and 10 performed the same exercises on a turned-off musical keyboard (audio feedback absent). Training duration was half an hour per day for 15 days. Primary outcome was the perceived hand functional use measured by ABILHAND Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were hand dexterity, measured by Nine-Hole Peg Test, and hand strength, measured by Jamar and Pinch dynamometers. Two-way analysis of variance was used for data analysis. The interaction time × group was significant (p = 0.003) for ABILHAND Questionnaire in favour of experimental group (mean between-group difference 0.99 logit [IC95%: 0.44; 1.54]). The two groups showed a significant time effect for all outcomes except for Jamar measure. Playing a musical keyboard seems a valid method to train the functional use of hands in subjects with multiple sclerosis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  5. Effects of rehabilitative interventions on pain, function and physical impairments in people with hand osteoarthritis: a systematic review

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Introduction Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is associated with pain, reduced grip strength, loss of range of motion and joint stiffness leading to impaired hand function and difficulty with daily activities. The effectiveness of different rehabilitation interventions on specific treatment goals has not yet been fully explored. The objective of this systematic review is to provide evidence based knowledge on the treatment effects of different rehabilitation interventions for specific treatment goals for hand OA. Methods A computerized literature search of Medline, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), ISI Web of Science, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and SCOPUS was performed. Studies that had an evidence level of 2b or higher and that compared a rehabilitation intervention with a control group and assessed at least one of the following outcome measures - pain, physical hand function or other measures of hand impairment - were included. The eligibility and methodological quality of trials were systematically assessed by two independent reviewers using the PEDro scale. Treatment effects were calculated using standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals. Results Ten studies, of which six were of higher quality (PEDro score >6), were included. The rehabilitation techniques reviewed included three studies on exercise, two studies each on laser and heat, and one study each on splints, massage and acupuncture. One higher quality trial showed a large positive effect of 12-month use of a night splint on hand pain, function, strength and range of motion. Exercise had no effect on hand pain or function although it may be able to improve hand strength. Low level laser therapy may be useful for improving range of motion. No rehabilitation interventions were found to improve stiffness. Conclusions There is emerging high quality evidence to support that rehabilitation interventions can offer significant benefits to individuals

  6. Taylor Series Trajectory Calculations Including Oblateness Effects and Variable Atmospheric Density

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, James R.

    2011-01-01

    Taylor series integration is implemented in NASA Glenn's Spacecraft N-body Analysis Program, and compared head-to-head with the code's existing 8th- order Runge-Kutta Fehlberg time integration scheme. This paper focuses on trajectory problems that include oblateness and/or variable atmospheric density. Taylor series is shown to be significantly faster and more accurate for oblateness problems up through a 4x4 field, with speedups ranging from a factor of 2 to 13. For problems with variable atmospheric density, speedups average 24 for atmospheric density alone, and average 1.6 to 8.2 when density and oblateness are combined.

  7. Synchrotron radiation microtomography of Taylor bubbles in capillary two-phase flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boden, Stephan; dos Santos Rolo, Tomy; Baumbach, Tilo; Hampel, Uwe

    2014-07-01

    We report on a study to measure the three-dimensional shape of Taylor bubbles in capillaries using synchrotron radiation in conjunction with ultrafast radiographic imaging. Moving Taylor bubbles in 2-mm round and square capillaries were radiographically scanned with an ultrahigh frame rate of up to 36,000 fps and 5.6-µm pixel separation. Consecutive images were properly processed to yield 2D transmission radiographs of high contrast-to-noise ratio. Application of 3D tomographic image reconstruction disclosed the 3D bubble shape. The results provide a reference data base for development of sophisticated interface resolving CFD computations.

  8. Evaluation of validity and reliability of the Persian version of the functional index of hand osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Kordi Yoosefinejad, Amin; Motealleh, Alireza; Babakhani, Mohammad

    2017-05-01

    The Functional index of hand osteoarthritis (FIHOA) is a commonly used patient-reported outcome questionnaire designed to measure function in patients with hand osteoarthritis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the FIHOA. The Persian-translated version of FIHOA was administered to 72 native Persian-speaking patients in Iran with hand osteoarthritis. Thirty-six of the patients completed the questionnaire on two occasions 1 week apart. The physical component of the SF-36 and a numerical rating scale were used to evaluate the construct validity of the Persian version of FIHOA. Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). Test-retest reliability for the total score was excellent (weighted kappa = 0.89, 95% CI 0.79-0.94). A significant positive correlation between total FIHOA score and numerical rating scale (r = 0.70) and a significant negative correlation between total FIHOA score and the physical component scale of the SF-36 (r = -0.76) were observed. The Persian version of the FIHOA showed adequate validity and reliability to evaluate functional disability in Persian-speaking patients with hand osteoarthritis.

  9. Discrete Boltzmann modeling of Rayleigh-Taylor instability in two-component compressible flows.

    PubMed

    Lin, Chuandong; Xu, Aiguo; Zhang, Guangcai; Luo, Kai Hong; Li, Yingjun

    2017-11-01

    A discrete Boltzmann model (DBM) is proposed to probe the Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) in two-component compressible flows. Each species has a flexible specific-heat ratio and is described by one discrete Boltzmann equation (DBE). Independent discrete velocities are adopted for the two DBEs. The collision and force terms in the DBE account for the molecular collision and external force, respectively. Two types of force terms are exploited. In addition to recovering the modified Navier-Stokes equations in the hydrodynamic limit, the DBM has the capability of capturing detailed nonequilibrium effects. Furthermore, we use the DBM to investigate the dynamic process of the RTI. The invariants of tensors for nonequilibrium effects are presented and studied. For low Reynolds numbers, both global nonequilibrium manifestations and the growth rate of the entropy of mixing show three stages (i.e., the reducing, increasing, and then decreasing trends) in the evolution of the RTI. On the other hand, the early reducing tendency is suppressed and even eliminated for high Reynolds numbers. Relevant physical mechanisms are analyzed and discussed.

  10. Lattice QCD at finite temperature and density from Taylor expansion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Steinbrecher, Patrick

    2017-01-01

    In the first part, I present an overview of recent Lattice QCD simulations at finite temperature and density. In particular, we discuss fluctuations of conserved charges: baryon number, electric charge and strangeness. These can be obtained from Taylor expanding the QCD pressure as a function of corresponding chemical potentials. Our simulations were performed using quark masses corresponding to physical pion mass of about 140 MeV and allow a direct comparison to experimental data from ultra-relativistic heavy ion beams at hadron colliders such as the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider at Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. In the second part, we discuss computational challenges for current and future exascale Lattice simulations with a focus on new silicon developments from Intel and NVIDIA.

  11. Solving ODE Initial Value Problems With Implicit Taylor Series Methods

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, James R.

    2000-01-01

    In this paper we introduce a new class of numerical methods for integrating ODE initial value problems. Specifically, we propose an extension of the Taylor series method which significantly improves its accuracy and stability while also increasing its range of applicability. To advance the solution from t (sub n) to t (sub n+1), we expand a series about the intermediate point t (sub n+mu):=t (sub n) + mu h, where h is the stepsize and mu is an arbitrary parameter called an expansion coefficient. We show that, in general, a Taylor series of degree k has exactly k expansion coefficients which raise its order of accuracy. The accuracy is raised by one order if k is odd, and by two orders if k is even. In addition, if k is three or greater, local extrapolation can be used to raise the accuracy two additional orders. We also examine stability for the problem y'= lambda y, Re (lambda) less than 0, and identify several A-stable schemes. Numerical results are presented for both fixed and variable stepsizes. It is shown that implicit Taylor series methods provide an effective integration tool for most problems, including stiff systems and ODE's with a singular point.

  12. [Hand transplantation and implantation of nerve chips. New developments within hand surgery].

    PubMed

    Dahlin, L; Fridén, J; Hagberg, L; Lundborg, G

    1999-10-06

    Injuries and diseases of the hand naturally have an enormous impact on hand function and on quality of life, both occupational and social. The majority of hand-injury patients are under 30 years of age. Hand surgery, an established specialty in Sweden since 1969, is of great importance in terms of clinical developments, education and research. In the coming decade, scientific and clinical advances are to be expected in several fields such as nerve injuries including brachial plexus lesion, microsurgery, flexor tendon injuries and tendon transfer. Bioimplant research and new advances at the biotechnological interface will yield new options in nerve reconstruction, microchip implants in the nervous system, and the restoration of muscle-tendon function following injury. Artificial limbs with advanced motor and sensory functions will be important future aids in the rehabilitation of amputees. Transplantation of human hands is another promising reconstructive procedure which may open up new perspectives in the coming millennium.

  13. [Hand transplantation and implantation of nerve chips. New developments within hand surgery].

    PubMed

    Dahlin, L; Fridén, J; Hagberg, L; Lundborg, G

    2000-03-20

    Injuries and diseases of the hand naturally have an enormous impact on hand function and on quality of life, both occupational and social. The majority of hand-injury patients are under 30 years of age. Hand surgery, an established specialty in Sweden since 1969, is of great importance in terms of clinical developments, education and research. In the coming decade, scientific and clinical advances are to be expected in several fields such as nerve injuries including brachial plexus lesion, microsurgery, flexor tendon injuries and tendon transfer. Bioimplant research and new advances at the biotechnological interface will yield new options in nerve reconstruction, microchip implants in the nervous system, and the restoration of muscle-tendon function following injury. Artificial limbs with advanced motor and sensory functions will be important future aids in the rehabilitation of amputees. Transplantation of human hands is another promising reconstructive procedure which may open iup new perspectives in the coming millennium.

  14. Maintained Hand Function and Forearm Bone Health 14 Months After an In-Home Virtual-Reality Videogame Hand Telerehabilitation Intervention in an Adolescent With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy

    PubMed Central

    Golomb, Meredith R.; Warden, Stuart J.; Fess, Elaine; Rabin, Bryan; Yonkman, Janell; Shirley, Bridget; Burdea, Grigore C.

    2015-01-01

    Virtual reality videogames can be used to motivate rehabilitation, and telerehabilitation can be used to improve access to rehabilitation. These uses of technology to improve health outcomes are a burgeoning area of rehabilitation research. So far, there is a lack of reports of long-term outcomes of these types of interventions. The authors report a 15-year-old boy with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and epilepsy because of presumed perinatal stroke who improved his plegic hand function and increased his plegic forearm bone health during a 14-month virtual reality videogame hand telerehabilitation intervention. A total of 14 months after the intervention ended, repeat evaluation demonstrated maintenance of both increased hand function and forearm bone health. The implications of this work for the future of rehabilitation in children with neurological disabilities are discussed in this article. PMID:21383228

  15. Hand Strength, Handwriting, and Functional Skills in Children With Autism.

    PubMed

    Alaniz, Michele L; Galit, Eleanor; Necesito, Corina Isabel; Rosario, Emily R

    2015-01-01

    To establish hand strength development trends in children with autism and to investigate correlations between grip and pinch strength, components of handwriting, and functional activities in children with and without autism. Fifty-one children were divided into two groups: typically developing children and children on the autism spectrum. Each child completed testing for pinch and grip strength, handwriting legibility, pencil control, and independence in functional activities. The children with autism followed the same strength development trends as the typically developing children. Grip strength correlated with pencil control in both groups and with handwriting legibility in the typically developing children but not in the children with autism. Grip and pinch strength correlated with independence with functional activities in both groups. This study provides evidence that grip and pinch strength are important components in developing pencil control, handwriting legibility, and independence with functional fine motor tasks. Copyright © 2015 by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

  16. Cortical language lateralization in right handed normal subjects using functional magnetic resonance imaging.

    PubMed

    Vikingstad, E M; George, K P; Johnson, A F; Cao, Y

    2000-04-01

    In 95% of right handed individuals the left hemisphere is dominant for speech and language function. The evidence for this is accumulated primarily from clinical populations. We investigated cortical topography of language function and lateralization in a sample of the right handed population using functional magnetic resonance imaging and two lexical-semantic paradigms. Activated cortical language networks were assessed topographically and quantitatively by using a lateralization index. As a group, we observed left hemispheric language dominance. Individually, the lateralization index varied continuously from left hemisphere dominant to bilateral representation. In males, language primarily lateralized to left, and in females, approximately half had left lateralization and the other half had bilateral representation. Our data indicate that a previous view of female bilateral hemispheric dominance for language (McGlone, 1980. Sex differences in human brain asymmetry: a critical survey. Behav Brain Sci 3:215-263; Shaywitz et al., 1995. Sex differences in the functional organization of the brain for language. Nature 373:607-609) simplifies the complexity of cortical language distribution in this population. Analysis of the distribution of the lateralization index in our study allowed us to make this difference in females apparent.

  17. Using Taylor Expansions to Prepare Students for Calculus

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lutzer, Carl V.

    2011-01-01

    We propose an alternative to the standard introduction to the derivative. Instead of using limits of difference quotients, students develop Taylor expansions of polynomials. This alternative allows students to develop many of the central ideas about the derivative at an intuitive level, using only skills and concepts from precalculus, and…

  18. Hand Function in Children with an Upper Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: Results of the Nine-Hole Peg Test

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Immerman, Igor; Alfonso, Daniel T.; Ramos, Lorna E.; Grossman, Leslie A.; Alfonso, Israel; Ditaranto, Patricia; Grossman, John A. I.

    2012-01-01

    Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate hand function in children with Erb upper brachial plexus palsy. Method: Hand function was evaluated in 25 children (eight males; 17 females) with a diagnosed upper (C5/C6) brachial plexus birth injury. Of these children, 22 had undergone primary nerve reconstruction and 13 of the 25 had undergone…

  19. Measuring Taylor Slough boundary and internal flows, Everglades National Park, Florida

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Tillis, G.M.

    2001-01-01

    Four intensive data-collection efforts, intended to represent the spectrum of precipitation events and associated flow conditions, were conducted during 1997 and 1998 in the Taylor Slough Basin, Everglades National Park. Flow velocities were measured by newly developed, portable Acoustic Doppler Velocity meters along three transects bisecting the Taylor Slough Basin from east to west, roughly perpendicular to the centerline axis of the slough as well as a fourth transect along the slough's axis. These meters provided the required levels of accuracy in flow-velocity measurements while enabling the rapid collection of multiple time series of flow data at remote sites. Concurrently, flow measurements were made along bordering road culverts and under L-31W and Taylor Slough bridges. Flows across the study area's boundaries provided net flow of water into the system and transect measurements provided flow data within the basin. Collected data are available through the World Wide Web (http://sofia.usgs.gov/projects/flow_velocity/). The high-water and low-water events corresponded with the highest and lowest flow velocities, respectively. The July 1998 data had lower than expected flow velocities and, in some cases, strong winds reversed flow direction.

  20. Instability of Taylor-Sedov blast waves propagating through a uniform gas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grun, J.; Stamper, J.; Manka, C.; Resnick, J.; Burris, R.; Crawford, J.; Ripin, B. H.

    1991-05-01

    An instability in Taylor-Sedov blast waves was measured as the waves propagated through a uniform gas with a low adiabatic index. The first measurements of the instability are given and compared to theoretical predictions. The classical Taylor-Sedov blast waves resulted from the expansion of ablation plasma into an ambient gas from laser-irradiated foils, and photographs were taken using the dark-field imaging method. Visible emission from the blasts were recorded with a four-frame microchannel-plate intensifier camera. Blast waves formed in nitrogen gas are shown to be stable and smooth, whereas the waves propagating through xenon gas are found to be unstable and wrinkled. A power law is fitted to the experimental data, and the adiabatic indices are theorized to cause the different responses in the two gases. The results generally agree with theoretical predictions in spite of some minor discrepancies, and an explanation of the instability mechanism is developed. When the adiabatic index is sufficiently low, the Taylor-Sedov blast waves in a uniform gas will be unstable, and the perturbed amplitudes will grow as a power of time.

  1. Three Important Taylor Series for Introductory Physics

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-09-01

    series by the sum of its first few terms is useful throughout an introductory physics course . Example applications [1, 2] include estimating square...Lat. Am. J. Phys. Educ. Vol. 3, No. 3, Sept. 2009 535 http://www.journal.lapen.org.mx Three Important Taylor Series for Introductory Physics...one dimension, which instructively ties the mathematical development to physics concepts already presented in introductory courses . Keywords

  2. Dual-task performance involving hand dexterity and cognitive tasks and daily functioning in people with schizophrenia: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Lin, Keh-chung; Wu, Yi-fang; Chen, I-chen; Tsai, Pei-luen; Wu, Ching-yi; Chen, Chia-ling

    2015-01-01

    This study investigated separate and concurrent performance on cognitive and hand dexterity tasks and the relationship to daily functioning in 16 people with schizophrenia and 16 healthy control participants. Participants performed the Purdue Pegboard Test and the Serial Seven Subtraction Test under single- and dual-task conditions and completed two daily functioning evaluations. The hand dexterity of all participants declined in the dual-task condition, but the discrepancy between single-task and dual-task hand dexterity was greater in the schizophrenia group than in the control group (p<.03, d>.70, for all). The extent of discrepancy in hand dexterity was negatively correlated with daily functioning in the schizophrenia group (rs=-.3 to -.5, ps=.04-.26). Ability to perform dual tasks may be an indicator of daily functioning in people with schizophrenia. Use of dual-task training may be considered as a therapeutic activity with these clients. Copyright © 2015 by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

  3. Positive Health Psychology: An Interview with Shelley Taylor.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rich, Grant Jewell

    2000-01-01

    Presents an interview with Shelley Taylor, a professor of Psychology at the University of California in Los Angles (California). Addresses topics such as how she became interested in psychology, the importance of health psychology in the curriculum, the ideal training for students in health psychology, and her work with "positive illusions." (CMK)

  4. Characterizing Strength of Chaotic Dynamics and Numerical Simulation Relevant to Modified Taylor-Couette Flow with Hourglass Geometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hou, Yu; Kowalski, Adam; Schroder, Kjell; Halmstad, Andrew; Olsen, Thomas; Wiener, Richard

    2006-05-01

    We characterize the strength of chaos in two different regimes of Modified Taylor-Couette flow with Hourglass Geometry: the formation of Taylor Vortices with laminar flow and with turbulent flow. We measure the strength of chaos by calculating the correlation dimension and the Kaplan-Yorke dimension based upon the Lyapunov Exponents of each system. We determine the reliability of our calculations by considering data from a chaotic electronic circuit. In order to predict the behavior of the Modified Taylor-Couette flow system, we employ simulations based upon an idealized Reaction-Diffusion model with a third order non-linearity in the reaction rate. Variation of reaction rate with length corresponds to variation of the effective Reynolds Number along the Taylor-Couette apparatus. We present preliminary results and compare to experimental data.

  5. Approximating exponential and logarithmic functions using polynomial interpolation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gordon, Sheldon P.; Yang, Yajun

    2017-04-01

    This article takes a closer look at the problem of approximating the exponential and logarithmic functions using polynomials. Either as an alternative to or a precursor to Taylor polynomial approximations at the precalculus level, interpolating polynomials are considered. A measure of error is given and the behaviour of the error function is analysed. The results of interpolating polynomials are compared with those of Taylor polynomials.

  6. 2. Historic American Buildings Survey Everitt K. Taylor, Photographer September ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    2. Historic American Buildings Survey Everitt K. Taylor, Photographer September 15, 1936 EXTERIOR - EAST ELEVATION FROM OLD PRINT IN POSSESSION OF OWNER - Governor's House, 149 Kearny Avenue, Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, NJ

  7. Viscous effects on the Rayleigh-Taylor instability with background temperature gradient

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gerashchenko, Sergiy; Livescu, Daniel

    Here we studied the growth rate of the compressible Rayleigh-Taylor instability in the presence of a background temperature gradient, Θ, using a normal mode analysis. The effect of Θ variation is examined for three interface types corresponding to the combinations of the viscous properties of the fluids (inviscid-inviscid, viscous-viscous, and viscous-inviscid) at different Atwood numbers, At, and when at least one of the fluids' viscosity is non-zero, as a function of the Grashof number. For the general case, the resulting ordinary differential equations are solved numerically; however, dispersion relations for the growth rate are presented for several limiting cases. Anmore » analytical solution is found for the inviscid-inviscid interface and the corresponding dispersion equation for the growth rate is obtained in the limit of large Θ. For the viscous-inviscid case, a dispersion relation is derived in the incompressible limit and Θ=0. Compared to Θ=0 case, the role of Θ<0 (hotter light fluid) is destabilizing and becomes stabilizing when Θ>0 (colder light fluid). The most pronounced effect of Θ ≠ 0 is found at low At and/or at large perturbation wavelengths relative to the domain size for all interface types. On the other hand, at small perturbation wavelengths relative to the domain size, the growth rate for the Θ<0 case exceeds the infinite domain incompressible constant density result. The results are applied to two practical examples, using sets of parameters relevant to Inertial Confinement Fusion coasting stage and solar corona plumes. The role of viscosity on the growth rate reduction is discussed together with highlighting the range of wavenumbers most affected by viscosity. The viscous effects further increase in the presence of background temperature gradient, when the viscosity is temperature dependent.« less

  8. Viscous effects on the Rayleigh-Taylor instability with background temperature gradient

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gerashchenko, S.; Livescu, D., E-mail: livescu@lanl.gov

    The growth rate of the compressible Rayleigh-Taylor instability is studied in the presence of a background temperature gradient, Θ, using a normal mode analysis. The effect of Θ variation is examined for three interface types corresponding to the combinations of the viscous properties of the fluids (inviscid-inviscid, viscous-viscous, and viscous-inviscid) at different Atwood numbers, At, and when at least one of the fluids' viscosity is non-zero, as a function of the Grashof number. For the general case, the resulting ordinary differential equations are solved numerically; however, dispersion relations for the growth rate are presented for several limiting cases. An analyticalmore » solution is found for the inviscid-inviscid interface and the corresponding dispersion equation for the growth rate is obtained in the limit of large Θ. For the viscous-inviscid case, a dispersion relation is derived in the incompressible limit and Θ = 0. Compared to Θ = 0 case, the role of Θ < 0 (hotter light fluid) is destabilizing and becomes stabilizing when Θ > 0 (colder light fluid). The most pronounced effect of Θ ≠ 0 is found at low At and/or at large perturbation wavelengths relative to the domain size for all interface types. On the other hand, at small perturbation wavelengths relative to the domain size, the growth rate for the Θ < 0 case exceeds the infinite domain incompressible constant density result. The results are applied to two practical examples, using sets of parameters relevant to Inertial Confinement Fusion coasting stage and solar corona plumes. The role of viscosity on the growth rate reduction is discussed together with highlighting the range of wavenumbers most affected by viscosity. The viscous effects further increase in the presence of background temperature gradient, when the viscosity is temperature dependent.« less

  9. Viscous effects on the Rayleigh-Taylor instability with background temperature gradient

    DOE PAGES

    Gerashchenko, Sergiy; Livescu, Daniel

    2016-07-28

    Here we studied the growth rate of the compressible Rayleigh-Taylor instability in the presence of a background temperature gradient, Θ, using a normal mode analysis. The effect of Θ variation is examined for three interface types corresponding to the combinations of the viscous properties of the fluids (inviscid-inviscid, viscous-viscous, and viscous-inviscid) at different Atwood numbers, At, and when at least one of the fluids' viscosity is non-zero, as a function of the Grashof number. For the general case, the resulting ordinary differential equations are solved numerically; however, dispersion relations for the growth rate are presented for several limiting cases. Anmore » analytical solution is found for the inviscid-inviscid interface and the corresponding dispersion equation for the growth rate is obtained in the limit of large Θ. For the viscous-inviscid case, a dispersion relation is derived in the incompressible limit and Θ=0. Compared to Θ=0 case, the role of Θ<0 (hotter light fluid) is destabilizing and becomes stabilizing when Θ>0 (colder light fluid). The most pronounced effect of Θ ≠ 0 is found at low At and/or at large perturbation wavelengths relative to the domain size for all interface types. On the other hand, at small perturbation wavelengths relative to the domain size, the growth rate for the Θ<0 case exceeds the infinite domain incompressible constant density result. The results are applied to two practical examples, using sets of parameters relevant to Inertial Confinement Fusion coasting stage and solar corona plumes. The role of viscosity on the growth rate reduction is discussed together with highlighting the range of wavenumbers most affected by viscosity. The viscous effects further increase in the presence of background temperature gradient, when the viscosity is temperature dependent.« less

  10. Pediatric and adolescent applications of the Taylor Spatial Frame.

    PubMed

    Paloski, Michael; Taylor, Benjamin C; Iobst, Christopher; Pugh, Kevin J

    2012-06-01

    Limb deformity can occur in the pediatric and adolescent populations from multiple etiologies: congenital, traumatic, posttraumatic sequelae, oncologic, and infection. Correcting these deformities is important for many reasons. Ilizarov popularized external fixation to accomplish this task. Taylor expanded on this by designing an external fixator in 1994 with 6 telescoping struts that can be sequentially manipulated to achieve multiaxial correction of deformity without the need for hinges or operative frame alterations. This frame can be used to correct deformities in children and has shown good anatomic correction with minimal morbidity. The nature of the construct and length of treatment affects psychosocial factors that the surgeon and family must be aware of prior to treatment. An understanding of applications of the Taylor Spatial Frame gives orthopedic surgeons an extra tool to correct simple and complex deformities in pediatric and adolescent patients. Copyright 2012, SLACK Incorporated.

  11. Taylor bubbles in liquid filled annuli: Some new observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Agarwal, V.; Jana, A. K.; Das, G.; Das, P. K.

    2007-10-01

    Taylor bubbles rising through a vertical concentric annulus do not wrap around the inner tube completely. The two edges of the bubble are separated by a liquid bridge which increases with an increase of the inner radius. However, the change in the shape of the Taylor bubbles in annuli with extremely small inner diameter has not yet been reported. In the present investigation, several experiments have been performed in circular and noncircular annuli to understand the influence of the inner and outer wall on the bubble shape. The bubble has been observed to assume a completely different shape in both circular and square annuli with a very thin inner rod. Nevertheless, the rise velocity for such situations agree with the prediction of the model proposed by Das et al. [Chem. Eng. Sci. 53, 977 (1998)] when the outer pipe is circular but fails for a square outer pipe.

  12. Magnetic helicity balance at Taylor relaxed states sustained by AC helicity injection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hirota, Makoto; Morrison, Philip J.; Horton, Wendell; Hattori, Yuji

    2017-10-01

    Magnitudes of Taylor relaxed states that are sustained by AC magnetic helicity injection (also known as oscillating field current drive, OFCD) are investigated numerically in a cylindrical geometry. Compared with the amplitude of the oscillating magnetic field at the skin layer (which is normalized to 1), the strength of the axial guide field Bz 0 is shown to be an important parameter. The relaxation process seems to be active only when Bz 0 < 1 . Moreover, in the case of weak guide field Bz 0 < 0.2 , a helically-symmetric relaxed state is self-generated instead of the axisymmetric reversed-field pinch. As a theoretical model, the helicity balance is considered in a similar way to R. G. O'Neill et al., where the helicity injection rate is directly equated with the dissipation rate at the Taylor states. Then, the bifurcation to the helical Taylor state is predicted theoretically and the estimated magnitudes of the relaxed states reasonably agree with numerical results as far as Bz 0 < 1 . This work was supported by JSPS KAKENHI Grant Number 16K05627.

  13. [Hand osteoarthritis].

    PubMed

    Šenolt, Ladislav

    Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic disorder causing pain and limitation of mobility of affected joints. The prevalence of hand OA increases with age and more often affects females. Clinical signs obviously do not correlate with radiographic findings - symptomatic hand OA affects approximately 26 % of adult subjects, but radiographic changes can be found in up to two thirds of females and half of males older than 55 years.Disease course differ among individual patients. Hand OA is a heterogeneous disease. Nodal hand OA is the most common subtype affecting interphalangeal joints, thumb base OA affects first carpometacarpal joint. Erosive OA represents a specific subtype of hand OA, which is associated with joint inflammation, more pain, functional limitation and erosive findings on radiographs.Treatment of OA is limited. Analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the only agents reducing symptoms. New insights into the pathogenesis of disease should contribute to the development of novel effective treatment of hand OA.

  14. Direct simulation Monte Carlo investigation of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gallis, M. A.; Koehler, T. P.; Torczynski, J. R.

    In this paper, the Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) is investigated using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method of molecular gas dynamics. Here, fully resolved two-dimensional DSMC RTI simulations are performed to quantify the growth of flat and single-mode perturbed interfaces between two atmospheric-pressure monatomic gases as a function of the Atwood number and the gravitational acceleration. The DSMC simulations reproduce many qualitative features of the growth of the mixing layer and are in reasonable quantitative agreement with theoretical and empirical models in the linear, nonlinear, and self-similar regimes. In some of the simulations at late times, the instability enters themore » self-similar regime, in agreement with experimental observations. Finally, for the conditions simulated, diffusion can influence the initial instability growth significantly.« less

  15. Direct simulation Monte Carlo investigation of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability

    DOE PAGES

    Gallis, M. A.; Koehler, T. P.; Torczynski, J. R.; ...

    2016-08-31

    In this paper, the Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) is investigated using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method of molecular gas dynamics. Here, fully resolved two-dimensional DSMC RTI simulations are performed to quantify the growth of flat and single-mode perturbed interfaces between two atmospheric-pressure monatomic gases as a function of the Atwood number and the gravitational acceleration. The DSMC simulations reproduce many qualitative features of the growth of the mixing layer and are in reasonable quantitative agreement with theoretical and empirical models in the linear, nonlinear, and self-similar regimes. In some of the simulations at late times, the instability enters themore » self-similar regime, in agreement with experimental observations. Finally, for the conditions simulated, diffusion can influence the initial instability growth significantly.« less

  16. Taylor-Made Education: The Influence of the Efficiency Movement on the Testing of Reading Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Allen, JoBeth

    Much of what has developed in the testing of reading harkens back to the days of the "Cult of Efficiency" movement in education that can be largely attributed to Frederick Winslow Taylor. Taylor spent most of his productive years studying time and motion in an attempt to streamline industrial production so that people could work as…

  17. The Ways of the Hand: A Study of Hand Function among Blind, Visually Impaired and Visually Impaired Multi-Handicapped Children and Adolescents.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rogow, Sally M.

    1987-01-01

    The manual development of 148 blind, visually impaired, and visually impaired multi-handicapped students, aged 3-19, was studied. Results indicated a significant relationship between object manipulation and speech, and an inverse relationship between object manipulation and stereotypic hand mannerisms. Optimal development of manual functions and…

  18. Asymmetric bursting of Taylor bubble in inclined tubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rana, Basanta Kumar; Das, Arup Kumar; Das, Prasanta Kumar

    2016-08-01

    In the present study, experiments have been reported to explain the phenomenon of approach and collapse of an asymmetric Taylor bubble at free surface inside an inclined tube. Four different tube inclinations with horizontal (30°, 45°, 60° and 75°) and two different fluids (water and silicon oil) are considered for the experiment. Using high speed imaging, we have investigated the approach, puncture, and subsequent liquid drainage for re-establishment of the free surface. The present study covers all the aspects in the collapse of an asymmetric Taylor bubble through the generation of two films, i.e., a cap film which lies on top of the bubble and an asymmetric annular film along the tube wall. Retraction of the cap film is studied in detail and its velocity has been predicted successfully for different inclinations and fluids. Film drainage formulation considering azimuthal variation is proposed which also describes the experimental observations well. In addition, extrapolation of drainage velocity pattern beyond the experimental observation limit provides insight into the total collapse time of bubbles at different inclinations and fluids.

  19. Hand osteoarthritis: an epidemiological perspective.

    PubMed

    Kalichman, Leonid; Hernández-Molina, Gabriela

    2010-06-01

    Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent condition with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations. We review herein the prevalence, impact on hand function, and various risk factors related to hand OA. PubMed and MEDLINE databases (1950-2009) were searched for the keywords: "hand," "hand osteoarthritis," "distal interphalangeal," "proximal interphalangeal," "metacarpophalangeal," and "carpometacarpal." Published material emphasizing cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control studies regarding epidemiology, clinical features, functional impairment, and associated risk factors of hand OA were included. Hand OA is a heterogeneous, age- and gender-dependent disorder, occurring more frequently in women over 50 years of age. In the elderly population, the prevalence of radiographic hand OA can reach 80%. OA has a strong genetic predisposition, apparently gender- and phenotype-specific. A history of heavy manual labor or a repetitive use of the hand also has been linked to OA. Other variables such as weight, smoking, joint hyperlaxity, age of menarche, bone and cartilage mineralization factors, grip strength, and handedness may play a role. Symptomatic hand OA may cause functional impairment due to loss of strength, thus limiting the individual's ability to perform daily tasks. Several risk factors for hand OA have been identified; however, their interrelationship is not clearly understood. The development of preventive strategies and future research goals is needed. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. 1. Historic American Buildings Survey Everitt K. Taylor, Photographer September ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    1. Historic American Buildings Survey Everitt K. Taylor, Photographer September 15, 1936 EXTERIOR - GENERAL VIEW EAST ELEVATION FROM OLD PRINT IN POSSESSION OF OWNER - Governor's House, 149 Kearny Avenue, Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, NJ

  1. Tree ecophysiology research at Taylor Woods (P-53)

    Treesearch

    Thomas E. Kolb; Nate G. McDowell

    2008-01-01

    We summarize the key findings of tree ecophysiology studies performed at Taylor Woods, Fort Valley Experimental Forest, Arizona between 1994 and 2003 that provide unique insight on impacts of long-term stand density management in ponderosa pine forests on tree water relations, leaf gas exchange, radial growth, leaf area-to-sapwood-area ratio, growth efficiency, leaf...

  2. [The effect of floating-needle therapy combined with rehabilitation training for the hand function recovery of post-stroke patients].

    PubMed

    Yang, Jiangxia; Xiao, Hong

    2015-08-01

    To explore the improvement of hand motion function,spasm and self-care ability of daily life for stroke patients treated with floating-needle combined with rehabilitation training. Eighty hand spasm patients of post-stroke within one year after stroke were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group, 40 cases in each one. In the two groups, rehabilitation was adopted for eight weeks,once a day,40 min one time. In the observation group, based on the above treatment and according to muscle fascia trigger point, 2~3 points in both the internal and external sides of forearm were treated with floating-needle. The positive or passive flexion and extension of wrist and knuckle till the relief of spasm hand was combined. The floating-needle therapy was given for eight weeks, on the first three days once a day and later once every other day. Modified Ashworth Scale(MAS), activity of daily life(ADL, Barthel index) scores and Fugl-Meyer(FMA) scores were used to assess the spasm hand degree,activity of daily life and hand motion function before and after 7-day, 14-day and 8-week treatment. After 7-day, 14-day and 8-week treatment, MAS scores were apparently lower than those before treatment in the two groups(all P<0. 05), and Barthel scores and FMA scores were obviously higher than those before-treatment(all P<0. 05). After 14-day and 8-week treatment, FMA scores in the observation group were markedly higher than those in the control group(both P<0. 05). Floating-needle therapy combined with rehabilitation training and simple rehabilitation training could both improve hand spasm degree, hand function and activity of daily life of post-stroke patients, but floating-needle therapy combined with rehabilitation training is superior to simple rehabilitation training for the improvement of hand function.

  3. Factors that Affected Functional Outcome After a Delayed Excision and Split-Thickness Skin Graft on the Dorsal Side of Burned Hands.

    PubMed

    Shichinohe, Ryuji; Yamamoto, Yuhei; Kawashima, Kunihiro; Kimura, Chu; Ono, Kentaro; Horiuchi, Katsumi; Yoshida, Tetsunori; Murao, Naoki; Hayashi, Toshihiko; Funayama, Emi; Oyama, Akihiko; Furukawa, Hiroshi

    Early excision and skin grafting is the principle treatment for a burned hand although there are occasions when it cannot be done such as severe general condition, delayed consultation, and the lack of a definitive assessment of burn depth. This study analyzes the factors that affected function after a delayed excision and skin graft for hands with a deep dermal burn. This study retrospectively evaluated 43 burned hands that required a delayed excision and split-thickness skin graft on the dorsal side. Cases were required to only have split-thickness skin grafting from the dorsum of the hand and fingers distally to at least the proximal interphalangeal joint at least 8 days after the injury. The hands were divided into two functional categories: Functional category A, normal or nearly normal joint movements, and functional category B, abnormal joint movements. Demographic data were assessed statistically by a univariate analysis following a multiple regression analysis by a stepwise selection. A significant difference was observed between the groups in the number of days from grafting to complete wound healing of the graft site and with or without an escharotomy in the analysis. These parameters were statistically significant predictors of functional category B. The functional outcome of a burned hand after a delayed excision and split-thickness skin graft on the dorsal side became degraded depending on the number of days from grafting to complete wound healing. Cases that underwent an escharotomy also showed deterioration in function.

  4. How the impact of median neuropathy on sensorimotor control capability of hands for diabetes: an achievable assessment from functional perspectives.

    PubMed

    Chiu, Haw-Yen; Hsu, Hsiu-Yun; Kuo, Li-Chieh; Su, Fong-Chin; Yu, Hui-I; Hua, Shih-Che; Lu, Chieh-Hsiang

    2014-01-01

    To comprehend the sensorimotor control ability in diabetic hands, this study investigated the sensation, motor function and precision pinch performances derived from a pinch-holding-up activity (PHUA) test of the hands of diabetic patients and healthy subjects. The precision, sensitivity and specificity of the PHUA test in the measurements of diabetic patients were also analyzed. We hypothesized that the diabetic hands would have impacts on the sensorimotor functions of the hand performances under functionally quantitative measurements. One hundred and fifty-nine patients with clinically defined diabetes mellitus (DM) and 95 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were included. Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM), static and moving two-point discrimination (S2PD and M2PD), maximal pinch strength and precision pinch performance tests were conducted to evaluate the sensation, motor and sensorimotor status of the recruited hands. The results showed that there were significant differences (all p<0.05) in SWM, S2PD, M2PD and maximum pinch strength between the DM and control groups. A higher force ratio in the DM patients than in the controls (p<0.001) revealed a poor ability of pinch force adjustment in the DM patients. The percentage of maximal pinch strength was also significantly different (p<0.001) between the DM and control groups. The sensitivity, specificity and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.85, 0.51, and 0.724, respectively, for the PHUA test. Statistically significant degradations in sensory and motor functions and sensorimotor control ability were observed in the hands of the diabetic patients. The PHUA test could be feasibly used as a clinical tool to determine the sensorimotor function of the hands of diabetic patients from a functional perspective.

  5. How the Impact of Median Neuropathy on Sensorimotor Control Capability of Hands for Diabetes: An Achievable Assessment from Functional Perspectives

    PubMed Central

    Chiu, Haw-Yen; Hsu, Hsiu-Yun; Kuo, Li-Chieh; Su, Fong-Chin; Yu, Hui-I; Hua, Shih-Che; Lu, Chieh-Hsiang

    2014-01-01

    To comprehend the sensorimotor control ability in diabetic hands, this study investigated the sensation, motor function and precision pinch performances derived from a pinch-holding-up activity (PHUA) test of the hands of diabetic patients and healthy subjects. The precision, sensitivity and specificity of the PHUA test in the measurements of diabetic patients were also analyzed. We hypothesized that the diabetic hands would have impacts on the sensorimotor functions of the hand performances under functionally quantitative measurements. One hundred and fifty-nine patients with clinically defined diabetes mellitus (DM) and 95 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were included. Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM), static and moving two-point discrimination (S2PD and M2PD), maximal pinch strength and precision pinch performance tests were conducted to evaluate the sensation, motor and sensorimotor status of the recruited hands. The results showed that there were significant differences (all p<0.05) in SWM, S2PD, M2PD and maximum pinch strength between the DM and control groups. A higher force ratio in the DM patients than in the controls (p<0.001) revealed a poor ability of pinch force adjustment in the DM patients. The percentage of maximal pinch strength was also significantly different (p<0.001) between the DM and control groups. The sensitivity, specificity and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.85, 0.51, and 0.724, respectively, for the PHUA test. Statistically significant degradations in sensory and motor functions and sensorimotor control ability were observed in the hands of the diabetic patients. The PHUA test could be feasibly used as a clinical tool to determine the sensorimotor function of the hands of diabetic patients from a functional perspective. PMID:24722361

  6. Need and availability of assistive devices to compensate for impaired hand function of individuals with tetraplegia.

    PubMed

    Wäckerlin, Stephanie; Gemperli, Armin; Sigrist-Nix, Diana; Arnet, Ursina

    2018-06-04

    Context/Objective To evaluate the availability and self-declared unmet need of assistive devices to compensate for impaired hand function of individuals with tetraplegia in Switzerland. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Community. Participants Individuals with tetraplegia, aged 16 years or older, living in Switzerland. Interventions not applicable. Outcome Measures The self-report availability and unmet need of 18 assistive devices for impaired hand function was analyzed descriptively. The availability of devices was further evaluated stratified by sex, age, SCI severity, independence in grooming, time since injury, living situation, working status, and income. Associations between availability of devices and person characteristics were investigated using logistic regression analysis. Results Overall 32.7% of participants had any assistive device for impaired hand function at their disposal. The most frequent devices were adapted cutlery (14.8%), type supports (14.1%), environmental control systems (11.4%), and writing orthosis (10.6%). In the bivariate analysis several factors showed significant associations with at least one assistive device. Nevertheless, when controlling for potential confounding in multivariate analysis only independence in grooming (adapted cutlery, environmental control systems, type support, speech recognition software), SCI severity (writing orthosis, type support), and sex (adapted kitchenware) remained significantly associated with the availability of the mentioned assistive devices. The self-declared unmet need was generally low (0.7% - 4.3%), except for adapted kitchenware with a moderate unmet need (8.9%). Conclusion This study indicates that most individuals with tetraplegia in Switzerland are adequately supplied with assistive devices to compensate for impaired hand function. The availability depends mainly on SCI severity and independence in grooming.

  7. Functional and cosmetic outcome of single-digit ray amputation in hand.

    PubMed

    Bhat, A K; Acharya, A M; Narayanakurup, J K; Kumar, B; Nagpal, P S; Kamath, A

    2017-12-01

    To assess patient satisfaction, functional and cosmetic outcomes of single-digit ray amputation in hand and identify factors that might affect the outcome. Forty-five patients who underwent ray amputation were evaluated, 37 males and eight females whose mean age was 36.6 years ranging between 15 and 67 years. Twenty-eight patients had dominant hand involvement. Twenty-one patients underwent primary ray amputation, and 24 patients had secondary ray amputation. Eight out of the 23 patients with central digit injuries underwent transposition. Grip strength, pinch strength, tactile sensibility and functional evaluation using Result Assessment Scale (RAS) and DASH score were analysed. Cosmetic assessment was performed using visual analogue scale (VAS) for cosmesis. Median time of assessment after surgery was 20 months. Average loss of grip strength and pinch strength was found to be 43.3 and 33.6%, respectively. Average RAS score was 3.75. Median DASH score was 23.4. Eighty-three percentage of patients had excellent or good cosmesis on the VAS. Transposition causes significant increase in DASH scores for central digit ray amputations but was cosmetically superior. Middle finger ray amputation had the maximum loss of grip strength, and index finger ray amputation had greater loss of pinch strength. Affection of neighbouring digits caused greater grip and pinch loss, and a higher DASH score. Primary ray resection decreased the total disability and eliminated the costs of a second procedure. Following ray amputation, one can predict an approximate 43.3% loss of grip strength and 33.6% loss of pinch strength. The patients can be counselled regarding the expected time off from work, amount of disability and complications after a single-digit ray amputation. Majority of the patients can return to the same occupation after a period of dedicated hand therapy. Therapeutic, Level III.

  8. Viscous Rayleigh-Taylor instability in spherical geometry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mikaelian, Karnig O.

    We consider viscous fluids in spherical geometry, a lighter fluid supporting a heavier one. Chandrasekhar [Q. J. Mech. Appl. Math. 8, 1 (1955)] analyzed this unstable configuration providing the equations needed to find, numerically, the exact growth rates for the ensuing Rayleigh-Taylor instability. He also derived an analytic but approximate solution. We point out a weakness in his approximate dispersion relation (DR) and offer one that is to some extent improved.

  9. Viscous Rayleigh-Taylor instability in spherical geometry

    DOE PAGES

    Mikaelian, Karnig O.

    2016-02-08

    We consider viscous fluids in spherical geometry, a lighter fluid supporting a heavier one. Chandrasekhar [Q. J. Mech. Appl. Math. 8, 1 (1955)] analyzed this unstable configuration providing the equations needed to find, numerically, the exact growth rates for the ensuing Rayleigh-Taylor instability. He also derived an analytic but approximate solution. We point out a weakness in his approximate dispersion relation (DR) and offer one that is to some extent improved.

  10. New trends in Taylor series based applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kocina, Filip; Šátek, Václav; Veigend, Petr; Nečasová, Gabriela; Valenta, Václav; Kunovský, Jiří

    2016-06-01

    The paper deals with the solution of large system of linear ODEs when minimal comunication among parallel processors is required. The Modern Taylor Series Method (MTSM) is used. The MTSM allows using a higher order during the computation that means a larger integration step size while keeping desired accuracy. As an example of complex systems we can take the Telegraph Equation Model. Symbolic and numeric solutions are compared when harmonic input signal is used.

  11. Dextrous robot hands

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Venkataraman, Subramanian T. (Editor); Iberall, Thea (Editor)

    1990-01-01

    Recent studies of human hand function and their implications for the design of robot hands are discussed in reviews and reports. Topics addressed include human grasp choice and robotic grasp analysis, opposition space and human prehension, coordination in normal and prosthetic reaching, and intelligent exploration by the human hand. Consideration is given to a task-oriented dextrous manipulation architecture, the control architecture for the Belgrade/USC hand, the analysis of multifingered grasping and manipulation, and tactile sensing for shape interpretation. Diagrams, graphs, and photographs are provided.

  12. Hand-grasping and finger tapping induced similar functional near-infrared spectroscopy cortical responses

    PubMed Central

    Kashou, Nasser H.; Giacherio, Brenna M.; Nahhas, Ramzi W.; Jadcherla, Sudarshan R.

    2016-01-01

    Abstract. Despite promising advantages such as low cost and portability of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), it has yet to be widely implemented outside of basic research. Specifically, fNIRS has yet to be proven as a standalone tool within a clinical setting. The objective of this study was to assess hemodynamic concentration changes at the primary and premotor motor cortices as a result of simple whole-hand grasping and sequential finger-opposition (tapping) tasks. These tasks were repeated over 3 days in a randomized manner. Ten healthy young adults (23.8±4.8  years) participated in the study. Quantitatively, no statistically significant differences were discovered between the levels of activation for the two motor tasks (p>0.05). Overall, the signals were consistent across all 3 days. The findings show that both finger-opposition and hand grasping can be used interchangeably in fNIRS for assessment of motor function which would be useful in further advancing techniques for clinical implementation. PMID:27335888

  13. Validity of the Taylor hypothesis for linear kinetic waves in the weakly collisional solar wind

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Howes, G. G.; Klein, K. G.; TenBarge, J. M.

    The interpretation of single-point spacecraft measurements of solar wind turbulence is complicated by the fact that the measurements are made in a frame of reference in relative motion with respect to the turbulent plasma. The Taylor hypothesis—that temporal fluctuations measured by a stationary probe in a rapidly flowing fluid are dominated by the advection of spatial structures in the fluid rest frame—is often assumed to simplify the analysis. But measurements of turbulence in upcoming missions, such as Solar Probe Plus, threaten to violate the Taylor hypothesis, either due to slow flow of the plasma with respect to the spacecraft ormore » to the dispersive nature of the plasma fluctuations at small scales. Assuming that the frequency of the turbulent fluctuations is characterized by the frequency of the linear waves supported by the plasma, we evaluate the validity of the Taylor hypothesis for the linear kinetic wave modes in the weakly collisional solar wind. The analysis predicts that a dissipation range of solar wind turbulence supported by whistler waves is likely to violate the Taylor hypothesis, while one supported by kinetic Alfvén waves is not.« less

  14. Psychometric Function Reconstruction from Adaptive Tracking Procedures

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-11-29

    reduced variability and length of the track can be shown by the use of the "sweat factor" defined by Taylor and Creelman (1967). This is a measure of...Psychophysics, 35, 385-392. Taylor, M. M., and Creelman , C. D. (1967). PEST: Efficient estimates on probability functions. Journal of the Acoustical Society of

  15. Combined study of the solar neighbourhood kinematics - Spherical harmonics and Taylor expansions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hernandez-Pajares, M.; Nunez, J.

    1990-08-01

    This paper relates two methods of analyzing the kinematic parameters of the local macroscopic motions of the Galaxy: (1) the Ogorodnikov-Milne model (OM) that consists in the three-dimensional Taylor expansion of the mean velocity field, and (2) the two-dimensional spherical harmonic development of the velocity components (SH). The theoretical relations between the SH coefficients and the second-order OM ones for the radial velocity v(r), and the galactic heliocentric components of the velocity U, V, W are presented. Only the hypothesis of separability of the stellar density function of the sample into angular and radial parts is needed. They are applied to 4732 A-M stars included in the Figueras (1986) sample.

  16. Relationship between upper extremity kinesthetic sense and writing performance by students with low vision.

    PubMed

    Aki, Esra; Atasavun, Songül; Kayihan, Holya

    2008-06-01

    Kinesthetic sense plays an important role in writing. Children with low vision lack sensory input from the environment given their loss of vision. This study assessed the effect of upper extremity kinesthetic sense on writing function in two groups, one of students with low vision (9 girls and 11 boys, 9.4 +/- 1.9 yr. of age) and one of sighted students (10 girls and 10 boys, 10.1 +/- 1.3 yr. of age). All participants were given the Kinesthesia Test and Jebsen Hand Function Test-Writing subtest. Students with low vision scored lower on kinesthetic perception and writing performance than sighted peers. The correlation between scores for writing performance and upper extremity kinesthetic sense in the two groups was significant (r = -.34). The probability of deficiencies in kinesthetic information in students with low vision must be remembered.

  17. The Spirit and Action of Citizenship: Alex Taylor Community School.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haggerson, Nelson L.; And Others

    1987-01-01

    Describes a study of the prosocial atmosphere and citizenship spirit found at Alex Taylor Community School in Edmonton, Canada. Includes a brief background of the project and a description of several motivating citizenship activities within the school. (BSR)

  18. Traveling waves in a magnetized Taylor-Couette flow.

    PubMed

    Liu, Wei; Goodman, Jeremy; Ji, Hantao

    2007-07-01

    We investigate numerically a traveling wave pattern observed in experimental magnetized Taylor-Couette flow at low magnetic Reynolds number. By accurately modeling viscous and magnetic boundaries in all directions, we reproduce the experimentally measured wave patterns and their amplitudes. Contrary to previous claims, the waves are shown to be transiently amplified disturbances launched by viscous boundary layers, rather than globally unstable magnetorotational modes.

  19. Parasitism alters three power laws of scaling in a metazoan community: Taylor's law, density-mass allometry, and variance-mass allometry.

    PubMed

    Lagrue, Clément; Poulin, Robert; Cohen, Joel E

    2015-02-10

    How do the lifestyles (free-living unparasitized, free-living parasitized, and parasitic) of animal species affect major ecological power-law relationships? We investigated this question in metazoan communities in lakes of Otago, New Zealand. In 13,752 samples comprising 1,037,058 organisms, we found that species of different lifestyles differed in taxonomic distribution and body mass and were well described by three power laws: a spatial Taylor's law (the spatial variance in population density was a power-law function of the spatial mean population density); density-mass allometry (the spatial mean population density was a power-law function of mean body mass); and variance-mass allometry (the spatial variance in population density was a power-law function of mean body mass). To our knowledge, this constitutes the first empirical confirmation of variance-mass allometry for any animal community. We found that the parameter values of all three relationships differed for species with different lifestyles in the same communities. Taylor's law and density-mass allometry accurately predicted the form and parameter values of variance-mass allometry. We conclude that species of different lifestyles in these metazoan communities obeyed the same major ecological power-law relationships but did so with parameters specific to each lifestyle, probably reflecting differences among lifestyles in population dynamics and spatial distribution.

  20. Dissociable neural responses to hands and non-hand body parts in human left extrastriate visual cortex.

    PubMed

    Bracci, Stefania; Ietswaart, Magdalena; Peelen, Marius V; Cavina-Pratesi, Cristiana

    2010-06-01

    Accumulating evidence points to a map of visual regions encoding specific categories of objects. For example, a region in the human extrastriate visual cortex, the extrastriate body area (EBA), has been implicated in the visual processing of bodies and body parts. Although in the monkey, neurons selective for hands have been reported, in humans it is unclear whether areas selective for individual body parts such as the hand exist. Here, we conducted two functional MRI experiments to test for hand-preferring responses in the human extrastriate visual cortex. We found evidence for a hand-preferring region in left lateral occipitotemporal cortex in all 14 participants. This region, located in the lateral occipital sulcus, partially overlapped with left EBA, but could be functionally and anatomically dissociated from it. In experiment 2, we further investigated the functional profile of hand- and body-preferring regions by measuring responses to hands, fingers, feet, assorted body parts (arms, legs, torsos), and non-biological handlike stimuli such as robotic hands. The hand-preferring region responded most strongly to hands, followed by robotic hands, fingers, and feet, whereas its response to assorted body parts did not significantly differ from baseline. By contrast, EBA responded most strongly to body parts, followed by hands and feet, and did not significantly respond to robotic hands or fingers. Together, these results provide evidence for a representation of the hand in extrastriate visual cortex that is distinct from the representation of other body parts.

  1. Dissociable Neural Responses to Hands and Non-Hand Body Parts in Human Left Extrastriate Visual Cortex

    PubMed Central

    Ietswaart, Magdalena; Peelen, Marius V.; Cavina-Pratesi, Cristiana

    2010-01-01

    Accumulating evidence points to a map of visual regions encoding specific categories of objects. For example, a region in the human extrastriate visual cortex, the extrastriate body area (EBA), has been implicated in the visual processing of bodies and body parts. Although in the monkey, neurons selective for hands have been reported, in humans it is unclear whether areas selective for individual body parts such as the hand exist. Here, we conducted two functional MRI experiments to test for hand-preferring responses in the human extrastriate visual cortex. We found evidence for a hand-preferring region in left lateral occipitotemporal cortex in all 14 participants. This region, located in the lateral occipital sulcus, partially overlapped with left EBA, but could be functionally and anatomically dissociated from it. In experiment 2, we further investigated the functional profile of hand- and body-preferring regions by measuring responses to hands, fingers, feet, assorted body parts (arms, legs, torsos), and non-biological handlike stimuli such as robotic hands. The hand-preferring region responded most strongly to hands, followed by robotic hands, fingers, and feet, whereas its response to assorted body parts did not significantly differ from baseline. By contrast, EBA responded most strongly to body parts, followed by hands and feet, and did not significantly respond to robotic hands or fingers. Together, these results provide evidence for a representation of the hand in extrastriate visual cortex that is distinct from the representation of other body parts. PMID:20393066

  2. Structural reanalysis via a mixed method. [using Taylor series for accuracy improvement

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Noor, A. K.; Lowder, H. E.

    1975-01-01

    A study is made of the approximate structural reanalysis technique based on the use of Taylor series expansion of response variables in terms of design variables in conjunction with the mixed method. In addition, comparisons are made with two reanalysis techniques based on the displacement method. These techniques are the Taylor series expansion and the modified reduced basis. It is shown that the use of the reciprocals of the sizing variables as design variables (which is the natural choice in the mixed method) can result in a substantial improvement in the accuracy of the reanalysis technique. Numerical results are presented for a space truss structure.

  3. Evaluation of dexterity in insulin-treated patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

    PubMed

    Pfützner, Julia; Hellhammer, Juliane; Musholt, Petra; Pfützner, Anke H; Böhnke, Jan; Torsten, Hero; Amann-Zalan, Ildiko; Ganz, Manfred; Forst, Thomas; Pfützner, Andreas

    2011-01-01

    Daily routine for insulin-treated patients with diabetes mellitus requires correct performance of self-monitoring of blood glucose and insulin injections several times a day. Dexterity skills may play an important role in the performance efficacy of these procedures. We collected data of insulin-treated (>10 years) patients with different age ranges [healthy controls, 14 female/11 male, age (mean ± standard deviation) 55 ± 7 years; type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients, 12/13, 45 ± 9 years, disease duration 23.9 ± 6.5 years; T2DM patients, 8/17, 64 ± 6 years, 16.2 ± 6.9 years; T2DM patients (>70 years of age), 9/16, 75 ± 4 years, 19.7 ± 7.0 years]. After assessment of neuropathy (temperature, pain, and vibration perception), the patients participated in two dexterity test batteries [Jebsen-Taylor hand-function test (JHFT) and motoric performance series (MPS)]. Patients with type 2 diabetes showed disturbed vibration perception as compared to the other groups. The dexterity results were influenced by age to a large extent. Older T2DM patients performed worst in the majority of the subtests (e.g., JHFT, writing nondominant hand: control, 40.8 ± 11.7 s; T1DM, 46.3 ± 50.9 s, not significant versus control; old T2DM, 68.1 ± 29.5 s, p < .05; young T2DM, 52.5 ± 26.2 s, p < .05). Patients with type 1 diabetes showed similar JHFT and MPS results than the 10-year-older control subjects and performed outside of the age-dependent normal reference range. Manual skills and dexterity differed between the groups, and age-corrected reduced skills were common in both T1DM and T2DM patients in this study. Our findings underline the importance of considering dexterity and manual skills when designing medical devices for patients with diabetes mellitus. © 2010 Diabetes Technology Society.

  4. A hybrid Rayleigh-Taylor-current-driven coupled instability in a magnetohydrodynamically collimated cylindrical plasma with lateral gravity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhai, Xiang, E-mail: xzhai@caltech.edu; Bellan, Paul M., E-mail: pbellan@caltech.edu

    We present an MHD theory of Rayleigh-Taylor instability on the surface of a magnetically confined cylindrical plasma flux rope in a lateral external gravity field. The Rayleigh-Taylor instability is found to couple to the classic current-driven instability, resulting in a new type of hybrid instability that cannot be described by either of the two instabilities alone. The lateral gravity breaks the axisymmetry of the system and couples all azimuthal modes together. The coupled instability, produced by combination of helical magnetic field, curvature of the cylindrical geometry, and lateral gravity, is fundamentally different from the classic magnetic Rayleigh-Taylor instability occurring atmore » a two-dimensional planar interface. The theory successfully explains the lateral Rayleigh-Taylor instability observed in the Caltech plasma jet experiment [Moser and Bellan, Nature 482, 379 (2012)]. Potential applications of the theory include magnetic controlled fusion, solar emerging flux, solar prominences, coronal mass ejections, and other space and astrophysical plasma processes.« less

  5. Transition to turbulence in Taylor-Couette ferrofluidic flow

    PubMed Central

    Altmeyer, Sebastian; Do, Younghae; Lai, Ying-Cheng

    2015-01-01

    It is known that in classical fluids turbulence typically occurs at high Reynolds numbers. But can turbulence occur at low Reynolds numbers? Here we investigate the transition to turbulence in the classic Taylor-Couette system in which the rotating fluids are manufactured ferrofluids with magnetized nanoparticles embedded in liquid carriers. We find that, in the presence of a magnetic field transverse to the symmetry axis of the system, turbulence can occur at Reynolds numbers that are at least one order of magnitude smaller than those in conventional fluids. This is established by extensive computational ferrohydrodynamics through a detailed investigation of transitions in the flow structure, and characterization of behaviors of physical quantities such as the energy, the wave number, and the angular momentum through the bifurcations. A finding is that, as the magnetic field is increased, onset of turbulence can be determined accurately and reliably. Our results imply that experimental investigation of turbulence may be feasible by using ferrofluids. Our study of transition to and evolution of turbulence in the Taylor-Couette ferrofluidic flow system provides insights into the challenging problem of turbulence control. PMID:26065572

  6. Taylor-Goertler instabilities of Tollmien-Schlichting waves and other flows governed by the interactive boundary-layer equations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hall, Philip; Bennett, James

    1986-01-01

    The Taylor-Goertler vortex instability equations are formulated for steady and unsteady interacting boundary-layer flows. The effective Goertler number is shown to be a function of the wall shape in the boundary layer and the possibility of both steady and unsteady Taylor-Goertler modes exists. As an example the steady flow in a symmetrically constricted channel is considered and it is shown that unstable Goertler vortices exist before the boundary layers at the wall develop the Goldstein singularity discussed by Smith and Daniels (1981). As an example of an unsteady spatially varying basic state, it is considered the instability of high-frequency large-amplitude two- and three-dimensional Tollmien-Schlichting waves in a curved channel. It is shown that they are unstable in the first 'Stokes-layer stage' of the hierarchy of nonlinear states discussed by Smith and Burggraf (1985). This instability of Tollmien-Schlichting waves in an internal flow can occur in the presence of either convex or concave curvature. Some discussion of this instability in external flows is given.

  7. Functional and morphological studies of photodamaged skin on the hands of middle-aged Japanese golfers.

    PubMed

    Kikuchi-Numagami, K; Suetake, T; Yanai, M; Takahashi, M; Tanaka, M; Tagami, H

    2000-06-01

    The skin of golfers' hands provides a suitable model to study the effect of chronic sun exposure, because one of their hands is exposed to the outer environment, especially sunlight, while the other one is always protected by a glove during play. Our purpose was to find out the influence of photodamage on the properties of the skin surface of middle-aged Japanese by using non-invasive methods. We measured hydration state, and water barrier function of the stratum corneum (SC) and the color of the skin of the dorsum of the hands. In a separate study, we evaluated the skin surface contour by using replicas taken from the skin in a slightly stretched or relaxed position. We found a significant decrease in hydration of the skin surface of the exposed skin as compared to that of the protected skin, whereas no such difference was found with transepidermal water loss, a parameter for water barrier function of the SC. Luminance of skin color was also reduced in the sun-exposed skin. Replica analysis revealed that large wrinkles developing in a relaxed position were more prominent on the exposed than on the protected skin, while fine furrows noted in a slightly stretched position were shallower on the former than the latter. The data obtained indicate that the chronically exposed skin of golfers' hands shows morphological and functional changes resulting from long time exposure to the outer environment especially sunlight. Furthermore, bioengineering non-invasive methods are found to be useful to detect early photodamage of the skin in a more quantitative fashion which is rather difficult to demonstrate clinically.

  8. Chandrasekhar-Kendall modes and Taylor relaxation in an axisymmetric torus

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tang, X.Z.; Boozer, A.H.; Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027

    2005-10-01

    The helicity-conserving Taylor relaxation of a plasma in a toroidal chamber to a force-free configuration, which means j=(j{sub parallel})/B)B with j{sub parallel}/B independent of position, can be generalized to include the external injection of magnetic helicity. When this is done, j{sub parallel}/B has resonant values, which can be understood using the eigenmodes of Taylor-relaxed plasmas enclosed by a perfectly conducting toroidal shell. These eigenmodes include a toroidal generalization of those found by Chandrasekhar and Kendall (CK) [Astrophys. J. 126, 457 (1957)] for a spherical chamber, which has no externally produced magnetic flux. It is shown that the CK modes inmore » an axisymmetric torus are of three types: (1) helical modes as well as axisymmetric modes that have (2) and have no (3) net toroidal flux. Yoshida and Giga (YG) [Math. Z. 204, 235 (1990)] published a fourth class of modes: axisymmetric modes that have no net toroidal flux in the chamber due to toroidal flux produced by a net poloidal current in the shell canceling the net toroidal flux from the plasma currents. Jensen and Chu [Phys. Fluids 27, 2881 (1984)], as well as Taylor [Rev. Mod. Phys. 58, 741 (1986)], considered modes in which the vector potential was zero on the axisymmetric toroidal chamber. It is shown that these Jensen-Chu-Taylor modes include only the CK helical modes and the CK axisymmetric modes without net toroidal flux. If the toroidal chamber is perfectly conducting except for a cut that prevents a net poloidal current from flowing, resonances in j{sub parallel}/B occur at the eigenvalues of the axisymmetric CK modes. Jensen and Chu studied this type of resonance. Without the cut, so a poloidal current flows to conserve the net toroidal flux, it is shown that j{sub parallel}/B resonances occur at the eigenvalues of the CK modes that have no net toroidal flux and at the eigenvalues of the YG modes, which are upshifted from the eigenvalues of the axisymmetric CK modes

  9. Rayleigh-Taylor instability in an equal mass plasma

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Adak, Ashish, E-mail: ashish-adak@yahoo.com; Ghosh, Samiran, E-mail: sran-g@yahoo.com; Chakrabarti, Nikhil, E-mail: nikhil.chakrabarti@saha.ac.in

    The Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability in an inhomogeneous pair-ion plasma has been analyzed. Considering two fluid model for two species of ions (positive and negative), we obtain the possibility of the existence of RT instability. The growth rate of the RT instability as usual depends on gravity and density gradient scale length. The results are discussed in context of pair-ion plasma experiments.

  10. Command control for functional electrical stimulation hand grasp systems using miniature accelerometers and gyroscopes.

    PubMed

    Tong, K Y; Mak, A F T; Ip, W Y

    2003-11-01

    Recent commercially available miniature sensors have the potential to improve the functions of functional electrical stimulation (FES) systems in terms of control, reliability and robustness. A new control approach using a miniature gyroscope and an accelerometer was studied. These sensors were used to detect the linear acceleration and angular velocity of residual voluntary movements on upper limbs and were small and easy to put on. Five healthy subjects and three cervical spinal cord injured subjects were recruited to evaluate this controller. Sensors were placed on four locations: the shoulder, upper arm, wrist and hand. A quick forward-and-backward movement was employed to produce a distinctive waveform that was different from general movements. A detection algorithm was developed to generate a command signal by identifying this distinctive waveform through the detection of peaks and valleys in the sensor's signals. This command signal was used to control different FES hand grasp patterns. With a specificity of 0.9, the sensors had a success rate of 85-100% on healthy subjects and 82-97% on spinal cord injured subjects. In terms of sensor placement, the gyroscope was better as a control source than the accelerometer for wrist and hand positions, but the reverse was true for the shoulder.

  11. Simulation, Theory, and Observations of the Spectrum of the Rayleigh-Taylor Instability due to Laser Imprint of Planar Targets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Keskinen, M. J.; Karasik, Max; Bates, J. W.; Schmitt, A. J.

    2006-10-01

    A limitation on the efficiency of high gain direct drive inertial confinement fusion is the extent of pellet disruption caused by the Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability. The RT instability can be seeded by pellet surface irregularities and/or laser imprint nonuniformities. It is important to characterize the evolution of the RT instability, e.g., the k-spectrum of areal mass. In this paper we study the time-dependent evolution of the spectrum of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability due to laser imprint in planar targets. This is achieved using the NRL FAST hydrodynamic simulation code together with analytical models. It is found that the optically smoothed laser imprint-driven RT spectrum develops into an inverse power law in k-space after several linear growth times. FAST simulation code results are compared with recent NRL Nike KrF laser experimental data. An analytical model, which is a function of Froude and Atwood numbers, is derived for the RT spectrum and favorably compared with both FAST simulation and Nike observations.

  12. 78 FR 61505 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Taylor's...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-10-03

    ...We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, designate critical habitat for the Taylor's checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha taylori) and streaked horned lark (Eremophila alpestris strigata) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 1,941 acres (786 hectares) in Island, Clallam, and Thurston Counties in Washington, and in Benton County in Oregon, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation for Taylor's checkerspot butterfly. Approximately 4,629 acres (1,873 hectares) in Grays Harbor, Pacific, and Wahkiakum Counties in Washington, and in Clatsop, Columbia, Marion, Polk, and Benton Counties in Oregon, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation for streaked horned lark. The effect of this regulation is to designate critical habitat for the Taylor's checkerspot butterfly and streaked horned lark under the Act for the conservation of the species.

  13. Determinants of hand dermatitis, urticaria and loss of skin barrier function in professional cleaners in New Zealand.

    PubMed

    Douwes, Jeroen; Slater, Tania; Shanthakumar, Mathangi; McLean, Dave; Firestone, Ridvan Tua; Judd, Lissa; Pearce, Neil

    2017-04-01

    This study assessed the risk of dermatitis, urticaria and loss of skin barrier function in 425 cleaners and 281 reference workers (retail workers and bus drivers). Symptoms, atopy and skin barrier function were assessed by questionnaire, skin prick tests, and measurement of transepidermal water loss. Cleaners had an increased risk of current (past 3 months) hand/arm dermatitis (14.8% vs. 10.0%; OR = 1.9, p < 0.05) and urticaria (11% vs. 5.3%; OR = 2.4, p < 0.05) and were more likely to have dermatitis as adults (17.6% vs. 11.4%; OR = 1.8, p < 0.05). The risk of atopy was not increased, but associations with symptoms were more pronounced in atopics. Transepidermal water loss was significantly higher in cleaners. Wet-work was a significant risk factor for dermatitis and hand washing and drying significantly reduced the risk of urticaria. In conclusion, cleaners have an increased risk of hand/arm dermatitis, urticaria and loss of skin barrier function.

  14. [Hand management in recessive dystrophic bullous epydermolysis].

    PubMed

    Pajardi, G; Novelli, C; Parolo, C; Proserpio, G; Tegon, M; Vecchi, S

    2011-01-01

    Recessive distrofic epidermolysis bullosa creates severe hand deformities with disabling functional limitations. Hand surgeon should perform surgery when deformity inibits function, in order to restore the pinch. We present our experience on 44 patients and 58 operated hands, with the following schema: hand degloving, grafting of the first web and intraoperative dynamic splinting. In 30 patient with an 8 years follow up, 25 had had good or excellent results, and the 5 remaining shows early recurrence. Association of a correct surgical approach and adequate intra and post-operative rehabilitation improve hand function and a slow down inevitable recurrence.

  15. Inward propagating chemical waves in Taylor vortices.

    PubMed

    Thompson, Barnaby W; Novak, Jan; Wilson, Mark C T; Britton, Melanie M; Taylor, Annette F

    2010-04-01

    Advection-reaction-diffusion (ARD) waves in the Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction in steady Taylor-Couette vortices have been visualized using magnetic-resonance imaging and simulated using an adapted Oregonator model. We show how propagating wave behavior depends on the ratio of advective, chemical and diffusive time scales. In simulations, inward propagating spiral flamelets are observed at high Damköhler number (Da). At low Da, the reaction distributes itself over several vortices and then propagates inwards as contracting ring pulses--also observed experimentally.

  16. Self-awareness deficits following loss of inner speech: Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor's case study.

    PubMed

    Morin, Alain

    2009-06-01

    In her 2006 book "My Stroke of Insight" Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor relates her experience of suffering from a left hemispheric stroke caused by a congenital arteriovenous malformation which led to a loss of inner speech. Her phenomenological account strongly suggests that this impairment produced a global self-awareness deficit as well as more specific dysfunctions related to corporeal awareness, sense of individuality, retrieval of autobiographical memories, and self-conscious emotions. These are examined in details and corroborated by numerous excerpts from Taylor's book.

  17. Robotically facilitated virtual rehabilitation of arm transport integrated with finger movement in persons with hemiparesis.

    PubMed

    Merians, Alma S; Fluet, Gerard G; Qiu, Qinyin; Saleh, Soha; Lafond, Ian; Davidow, Amy; Adamovich, Sergei V

    2011-05-16

    Recovery of upper extremity function is particularly recalcitrant to successful rehabilitation. Robotic-assisted arm training devices integrated with virtual targets or complex virtual reality gaming simulations are being developed to deal with this problem. Neural control mechanisms indicate that reaching and hand-object manipulation are interdependent, suggesting that training on tasks requiring coordinated effort of both the upper arm and hand may be a more effective method for improving recovery of real world function. However, most robotic therapies have focused on training the proximal, rather than distal effectors of the upper extremity. This paper describes the effects of robotically-assisted, integrated upper extremity training. Twelve subjects post-stroke were trained for eight days on four upper extremity gaming simulations using adaptive robots during 2-3 hour sessions. The subjects demonstrated improved proximal stability, smoothness and efficiency of the movement path. This was in concert with improvement in the distal kinematic measures of finger individuation and improved speed. Importantly, these changes were accompanied by a robust 16-second decrease in overall time in the Wolf Motor Function Test and a 24-second decrease in the Jebsen Test of Hand Function. Complex gaming simulations interfaced with adaptive robots requiring integrated control of shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist and finger movements appear to have a substantial effect on improving hemiparetic hand function. We believe that the magnitude of the changes and the stability of the patient's function prior to training, along with maintenance of several aspects of the gains demonstrated at retention make a compelling argument for this approach to training.

  18. Robotically facilitated virtual rehabilitation of arm transport integrated with finger movement in persons with hemiparesis

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Background Recovery of upper extremity function is particularly recalcitrant to successful rehabilitation. Robotic-assisted arm training devices integrated with virtual targets or complex virtual reality gaming simulations are being developed to deal with this problem. Neural control mechanisms indicate that reaching and hand-object manipulation are interdependent, suggesting that training on tasks requiring coordinated effort of both the upper arm and hand may be a more effective method for improving recovery of real world function. However, most robotic therapies have focused on training the proximal, rather than distal effectors of the upper extremity. This paper describes the effects of robotically-assisted, integrated upper extremity training. Methods Twelve subjects post-stroke were trained for eight days on four upper extremity gaming simulations using adaptive robots during 2-3 hour sessions. Results The subjects demonstrated improved proximal stability, smoothness and efficiency of the movement path. This was in concert with improvement in the distal kinematic measures of finger individuation and improved speed. Importantly, these changes were accompanied by a robust 16-second decrease in overall time in the Wolf Motor Function Test and a 24-second decrease in the Jebsen Test of Hand Function. Conclusions Complex gaming simulations interfaced with adaptive robots requiring integrated control of shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist and finger movements appear to have a substantial effect on improving hemiparetic hand function. We believe that the magnitude of the changes and the stability of the patient's function prior to training, along with maintenance of several aspects of the gains demonstrated at retention make a compelling argument for this approach to training. PMID:21575185

  19. A rehabilitation device to improve the hand grasp function of stroke patients using a patient-driven approach.

    PubMed

    Park, Wanjoo; Jeong, Wookjin; Kwon, Gyu-Hyun; Kim, Yun-Hee; Kim, Laehyun

    2013-06-01

    This paper proposes a robotic hand rehabilitation device for grasp training. The device is designed for stroke patients to train and recover their hand grasp function in order to undertake activities of daily living (ADL). The device consists of a control unit, two small actuators, an infrared (IR) sensor, and pressure sensors in the grasp handle. The advantages of this device are that it is small in size, inexpensive, and available for use at home without specialist's supervision. In addition, a novel patient-driven strategy based on the patient's movement intention detected by the pressure sensors without bio-signals is introduced. Once the system detects a patient's movement intention, it triggers the robotic device to move the patient's hand to form the normal grasping behavior. This strategy may encourage stroke patients to participate in rehabilitation training to recover their hand grasp function and it may also enhance neural plasticity. A user study was conducted in order to investigate the usability, acceptability, satisfaction, and suggestions for improvement of the proposed device. The results of this survey included positive reviews from therapists and a stroke patient. In particular, therapists expected that the proposed patient-driven mode can motivate patients for their rehabilitation training and it can be effective to prevent a compensational strategy in active movements. It is expected that the proposed device will assist stroke patients in restoring their grasp function efficiently.

  20. Early intensive hand rehabilitation after spinal cord injury ("Hands On"): a protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Harvey, Lisa A; Dunlop, Sarah A; Churilov, Leonid; Hsueh, Ya-Seng Arthur; Galea, Mary P

    2011-01-17

    Loss of hand function is one of the most devastating consequences of spinal cord injury. Intensive hand training provided on an instrumented exercise workstation in conjunction with functional electrical stimulation may enhance neural recovery and hand function. The aim of this trial is to compare usual care with an 8-week program of intensive hand training and functional electrical stimulation. A multicentre randomised controlled trial will be undertaken. Seventy-eight participants with recent tetraplegia (C2 to T1 motor complete or incomplete) undergoing inpatient rehabilitation will be recruited from seven spinal cord injury units in Australia and New Zealand and will be randomised to a control or experimental group. Control participants will receive usual care. Experimental participants will receive usual care and an 8-week program of intensive unilateral hand training using an instrumented exercise workstation and functional electrical stimulation. Participants will drive the functional electrical stimulation of their target hands via a behind-the-ear bluetooth device, which is sensitive to tooth clicks. The bluetooth device will enable the use of various manipulanda to practice functional activities embedded within computer-based games and activities. Training will be provided for one hour, 5 days per week, during the 8-week intervention period. The primary outcome is the Action Research Arm Test. Secondary outcomes include measurements of strength, sensation, function, quality of life and cost effectiveness. All outcomes will be taken at baseline, 8 weeks, 6 months and 12 months by assessors blinded to group allocation. Recruitment commenced in December 2009. The results of this trial will determine the effectiveness of an 8-week program of intensive hand training with functional electrical stimulation. NCT01086930 (12th March 2010)ACTRN12609000695202 (12th August 2009).

  1. [Does the hand solely belong in the hands of a qualified hand surgeon?

    PubMed

    Güven, Asim; Kols, Kerstin; Fischer, Klaus; Schönberger, Michael; Allert, Sixtus

    2017-09-01

    Background In Germany, Hand Surgery is an additional qualification that can only be obtained by a three-year training after a completed residency in General Surgery, Plastic Surgery or Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery. Nevertheless, injuries and diseases of the hand are also treated by physicians without this particular qualification. It is questionable whether these treatments more often lead to medical malpractice. Material and Methods 376 charges of medical malpractice in surgical treatments of the hand and forearm that were closed in 2014 and 2015 were collected by the Arbitration Board for Medical Liability Issues of the Medical Association of North Germany.Cases with proven medical malpractice were classified by the qualification of the physician in charge and analysed. A statistical analysis was performed with the use of the program SPSS (IBM). Results Medical malpractice was proven in 42 of 113 cases with an attending physician who held the additional qualification for Hand Surgery (37.2 %). For physicians without this qualification, the figures were 79 out of 155 (51.0 %) in the group of trauma and orthopaedic surgeons and 54 out of 108 (50.0 %) in the group of general surgeons. The differences between the hand surgeons and the trauma and orthopaedic surgeons (p = 0.017) and between hand surgeons and general surgeons were significant (p = 0.037). Conclusions It was shown that physicians with an additional qualification in hand surgery had signifcantly fewer proven medical malpratice cases than physicians without this qualification. The following trends were observed in the cases of the physicians without the additional qualification in hand surgery: underestimation of the severity of trauma to soft tissues and infections of the hand, errors in the surgical examination of the hand, including functional tests of tendons and nerves, as well as in diagnostic findings after X-ray studies of the hand. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  2. Automated cross-modal mapping in robotic eye/hand systems using plastic radial basis function networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meng, Qinggang; Lee, M. H.

    2007-03-01

    Advanced autonomous artificial systems will need incremental learning and adaptive abilities similar to those seen in humans. Knowledge from biology, psychology and neuroscience is now inspiring new approaches for systems that have sensory-motor capabilities and operate in complex environments. Eye/hand coordination is an important cross-modal cognitive function, and is also typical of many of the other coordinations that must be involved in the control and operation of embodied intelligent systems. This paper examines a biologically inspired approach for incrementally constructing compact mapping networks for eye/hand coordination. We present a simplified node-decoupled extended Kalman filter for radial basis function networks, and compare this with other learning algorithms. An experimental system consisting of a robot arm and a pan-and-tilt head with a colour camera is used to produce results and test the algorithms in this paper. We also present three approaches for adapting to structural changes during eye/hand coordination tasks, and the robustness of the algorithms under noise are investigated. The learning and adaptation approaches in this paper have similarities with current ideas about neural growth in the brains of humans and animals during tool-use, and infants during early cognitive development.

  3. Some observations of a sheared Rayleigh-Taylor/Benard instability

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Humphrey, J. A. C.; Marcus, D. L.

    1987-01-01

    An account is provided of preliminary flow visualization observations made in an unstably stratified flow with shear superimposed. The structures observed appear to be the superposition of a Rayleigh-Taylor/Benard instability and a Kelvin-Helmholtz instability. Aside from its intrinsic fundamental value, the study of these structures is of special interest to theoreticians developing nonlinear stability calculation methodologies.

  4. Simplified Phase Diversity algorithm based on a first-order Taylor expansion.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Dong; Zhang, Xiaobin; Xu, Shuyan; Liu, Nannan; Zhao, Luoxin

    2016-10-01

    We present a simplified solution to phase diversity when the observed object is a point source. It utilizes an iterative linearization of the point spread function (PSF) at two or more diverse planes by first-order Taylor expansion to reconstruct the initial wavefront. To enhance the influence of the PSF in the defocal plane which is usually very dim compared to that in the focal plane, we build a new model with the Tikhonov regularization function. The new model cannot only increase the computational speed, but also reduce the influence of the noise. By using the PSFs obtained from Zemax, we reconstruct the wavefront of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) at the edge of the field of view (FOV) when the telescope is in either the nominal state or the misaligned state. We also set up an experiment, which consists of an imaging system and a deformable mirror, to validate the correctness of the presented model. The result shows that the new model can improve the computational speed with high wavefront detection accuracy.

  5. Suppression of the Rayleigh Taylor instability and its implication for the impact ignition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azechi, H.; Shiraga, H.; Nakai, M.; Shigemori, K.; Fujioka, S.; Sakaiya, T.; Tamari, Y.; Ohtani, K.; Murakami, M.; Sunahara, A.; Nagatomo, H.; Nishihara, K.; Miyanaga, N.; Izawa, Y.

    2004-12-01

    The Rayleigh Taylor (RT) instability with material ablation through an unstable interface is the key physics that determines the success or failure of inertial fusion energy (IFE) generation, as the RT instability potentially quenches ignition and burn by disintegrating the IFE target. We present two suppression schemes of the RT growth without significant degradation of the target density. The first scheme is to generate a double ablation structure in high-Z doped plastic targets. In addition to the electron ablation surface, a new ablation surface is created by x-ray radiation from the high-Z ions. Contrary to the previous thought, the electron ablation surface is almost completely stabilized by extremely high flow velocity. On the other hand, the RT instability on the radiative ablation surface is significantly moderated. The second is to enhance the nonlocal nature of the electron heat transport by illuminating the target with long wavelength laser light, whereas the high ablation pressure is generated by irradiating with short wavelength laser light. The significant suppression of the RT instability may increase the possibility of impact ignition which uses a high-velocity fuel colliding with a preformed main fuel.

  6. 3 CFR - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 3 The President 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Notice of July 20, 2011 Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor On July 22, 2004, by...

  7. 3 CFR - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 3 The President 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Notice of July 16, 2009 Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor On July 22, 2004, by...

  8. 3 CFR - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 3 The President 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Notice of July 17, 2013 Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Former Liberian Regime of Charles Taylor On July 22, 2004, by...

  9. Bright and durable field-emission source derived from frozen refractory-metal Taylor cones

    DOE PAGES

    Hirsch, Gregory

    2017-02-22

    A novel method for creating conical field-emission structures possessing unusual and desirable physical characteristics is described. This process is accomplished by solidification of electrostatically formed high-temperature Taylor cones created on the ends of laser melted refractory-metal wires. Extremely rapid freezing ensures that the resultant solid structures preserve the shape and surface smoothness of the flawless liquid Taylor-cones to a very high degree. The method also enables in situ and rapid restoration of the frozen cones to their initial pristine state after undergoing physical degradation during use. This permits maximum current to be delivered without excessive concern for any associated reductionmore » in field-emitter lifetime resulting from operation near or even above the damage threshold. In addition to the production of field emitters using polycrystalline wires as a substrate, the feasibility of producing monocrystalline frozen Taylor-cones having reproducible crystal orientation by growth on single-crystal wires was demonstrated. Finally, the development of the basic field-emission technology, progress to incorporate it into a pulsed electron gun employing laser-assisted field emission for ultrafast experiments, and some additional advances and opportunities are discussed.« less

  10. Bright and durable field-emission source derived from frozen refractory-metal Taylor cones

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hirsch, Gregory

    A novel method for creating conical field-emission structures possessing unusual and desirable physical characteristics is described. This process is accomplished by solidification of electrostatically formed high-temperature Taylor cones created on the ends of laser melted refractory-metal wires. Extremely rapid freezing ensures that the resultant solid structures preserve the shape and surface smoothness of the flawless liquid Taylor-cones to a very high degree. The method also enables in situ and rapid restoration of the frozen cones to their initial pristine state after undergoing physical degradation during use. This permits maximum current to be delivered without excessive concern for any associated reductionmore » in field-emitter lifetime resulting from operation near or even above the damage threshold. In addition to the production of field emitters using polycrystalline wires as a substrate, the feasibility of producing monocrystalline frozen Taylor-cones having reproducible crystal orientation by growth on single-crystal wires was demonstrated. Finally, the development of the basic field-emission technology, progress to incorporate it into a pulsed electron gun employing laser-assisted field emission for ultrafast experiments, and some additional advances and opportunities are discussed.« less

  11. Experimental investigation of head resistance reduction in bubbly Couette-Taylor flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maryami, R.; Javadpoor, M.; Farahat, S.

    2016-12-01

    Small bubble experiments are carried out in a circulating vertical Couette-Taylor flow system to investigate the effect of air bubbles on head resistance. In the system with inner rotating cylinder and circulating flow, flow is combined with circumferential and axial flow. Moreover, the variation range of rotational Reynolds number is 7 × 103 ≤ {Re}_{ω } ≤ 70 × 103 and small bubbles are dispersed into fully turbulent flow which consists of Taylor vortices. The modification of head resistance is examined by measuring the pressure difference between two certain holes along the cylinders axis. The results show that head resistance is decreased in the presence of small bubbles and a head resistance reduction greater than 60 % is achieved in low {Re}_{ω } s and in all {Re}_{ax} s changing from 299.15 to 396.27. The effect of air bubbles on vortices could be possible reason for head resistance reduction. Since Taylor vortices are stable in this regime, bubbles decrease the momentum transfer by elongating vortices along the axis of cylinders and decreasing their numbers. The positive effect of air bubbles on head resistance reduction is diminished when {Re}_{ω } is increased. Moreover, in certain ranges of {Re}_{ω }, small bubbles enhance head resistance when {Re}_{ax} is increased. It is predicted that negative effect of small bubbles on head resistance reduction is due to flow turbulence enhancement when {Re}_{ω } and {Re}_{ax} are increased.

  12. Taylor Farms Retail Inc., Salinas, CA; Consent Agreement and Final Order

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    Consent Agreement and Final Order (Proposed CA/FO), between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IX (EPA or Complainant), and Taylor Farms Retail Inc. (Respondent), 150 Main Street Salinas, CA 93901. Docket Number CWA-09-2018-0010

  13. Priming Hand Motor Training with Repetitive Stimulation of the Fingertips; Performance Gain and Functional Imaging of Training Effects.

    PubMed

    Lotze, Martin; Ladda, Aija Marie; Roschka, Sybille; Platz, Thomas; Dinse, Hubert R

    Application of repetitive electrical stimulation (rES) of the fingers has been shown to improve tactile perception and sensorimotor performance in healthy individuals. To increase motor performance by priming the effects of active motor training (arm ability training; AAT) using rES. We compared the performance gain for the training increase of the averaged AAT tasks of both hands in two groups of strongly right-handed healthy volunteers. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) before and after AAT was assessed using three tasks for each hand separately: finger sequence tapping, visually guided grip force modulation, and writing. Performance during fMRI was controlled for preciseness and frequency. A total of 30 participants underwent a two-week unilateral left hand AAT, 15 participants with 20 minutes of rES priming of all fingertips of the trained hand, and 15 participants without rES priming. rES-primed AAT improved the trained left-hand performance across all training tasks on average by 32.9%, non-primed AAT improved by 29.5%. This gain in AAT performance with rES priming was predominantly driven by an increased finger tapping velocity. Functional imaging showed comparable changes for both training groups over time. Across all participants, improved AAT performance was associated with a higher contralateral primary somatosensory cortex (S1) fMRI activation magnitude during the grip force modulation task. This study highlights the importance of S1 for hand motor training gain. In addition, it suggests the usage of rES of the fingertips for priming active hand motor training. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Evidence for mate guarding behavior in the Taylor's checkerspot butterfly

    Treesearch

    Victoria J. Bennett; Winston P. Smith; Matthew G. Betts

    2011-01-01

    Discerning the intricacies of mating systems in butterflies can be difficult, particularly when multiple mating strategies are employed and are cryptic and not exclusive. We observed the behavior and habitat use of 113 male Taylor's checkerspot butterflies (Euphydryas editha taylori). We confirmed that two distinct mating strategies were...

  15. Development and Application of a Tendon Prosthesis for Early Functional Restoration of the Hand.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-09-01

    AD-ARSA 323 JEFFERSON MEDICAL COLL PHILADELP HIA PA F/6 6/5 DEVELOFHNT AND APPLICATION OF A TENDON PROSTHESIS FOR EARLY FU--ETCU, SEP 75 .1 M HUNTER...THIS SHEET S LEVELINETR S DEVELOPEN AND APPLICATION OF A TENDON PROSTESIS FOR EARLY FUNCTIONAL RTORATION OF THE HAND DOCUMENT IDENTIFICATION...OF A TENDON PROSTHESIS * (B.l FOR EARLY FUNCTIONAL RESTORATION OF THE HArD ANNUAL REPORT by James M. Hunter, M.D. September 1975 (For the period 1 July

  16. Using the MCNP Taylor series perturbation feature (efficiently) for shielding problems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Favorite, Jeffrey

    2017-09-01

    The Taylor series or differential operator perturbation method, implemented in MCNP and invoked using the PERT card, can be used for efficient parameter studies in shielding problems. This paper shows how only two PERT cards are needed to generate an entire parameter study, including statistical uncertainty estimates (an additional three PERT cards can be used to give exact statistical uncertainties). One realistic example problem involves a detailed helium-3 neutron detector model and its efficiency as a function of the density of its high-density polyethylene moderator. The MCNP differential operator perturbation capability is extremely accurate for this problem. A second problem involves the density of the polyethylene reflector of the BeRP ball and is an example of first-order sensitivity analysis using the PERT capability. A third problem is an analytic verification of the PERT capability.

  17. Identifying factors of comfort in using hand tools.

    PubMed

    Kuijt-Evers, L F M; Groenesteijn, L; de Looze, M P; Vink, P

    2004-09-01

    To design comfortable hand tools, knowledge about comfort/discomfort in using hand tools is required. We investigated which factors determine comfort/discomfort in using hand tools according to users. Therefore, descriptors of comfort/discomfort in using hand tools were collected from literature and interviews. After that, the relatedness of a selection of the descriptors to comfort in using hand tools was investigated. Six comfort factors could be distinguished (functionality, posture and muscles, irritation and pain of hand and fingers, irritation of hand surface, handle characteristics, aesthetics). These six factors can be classified into three meaningful groups: functionality, physical interaction and appearance. The main conclusions were that (1) the same descriptors were related to comfort and discomfort in using hand tools, (2) descriptors of functionality are most related to comfort in using hand tools followed by descriptors of physical interaction and (3) descriptors of appearance become secondary in comfort in using hand tools.

  18. Motor skill changes and neurophysiologic adaptation to recovery-oriented virtual rehabilitation of hand function in a person with subacute stroke: a case study.

    PubMed

    Fluet, Gerard G; Patel, Jigna; Qiu, Qinyin; Yarossi, Matthew; Massood, Supriya; Adamovich, Sergei V; Tunik, Eugene; Merians, Alma S

    2017-07-01

    The complexity of upper extremity (UE) behavior requires recovery of near normal neuromuscular function to minimize residual disability following a stroke. This requirement places a premium on spontaneous recovery and neuroplastic adaptation to rehabilitation by the lesioned hemisphere. Motor skill learning is frequently cited as a requirement for neuroplasticity. Studies examining the links between training, motor learning, neuroplasticity, and improvements in hand motor function are indicated. This case study describes a patient with slow recovering hand and finger movement (Total Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer examination score = 25/66, Wrist and Hand items = 2/24 on poststroke day 37) following a stroke. The patient received an intensive eight-session intervention utilizing simulated activities that focused on the recovery of finger extension, finger individuation, and pinch-grasp force modulation. Over the eight sessions, the patient demonstrated improvements on untrained transfer tasks, which suggest that motor learning had occurred, as well a dramatic increase in hand function and corresponding expansion of the cortical motor map area representing several key muscles of the paretic hand. Recovery of hand function and motor map expansion continued after discharge through the three-month retention testing. This case study describes a neuroplasticity based intervention for UE hemiparesis and a model for examining the relationship between training, motor skill acquisition, neuroplasticity, and motor function changes. Implications for rehabilitation Intensive hand and finger rehabilitation activities can be added to an in-patient rehabilitation program for persons with subacute stroke. Targeted training of the thumb may have an impact on activity level function in persons with upper extremity hemiparesis. Untrained transfer tasks can be utilized to confirm that training tasks have elicited motor learning. Changes in cortical motor maps can be used to document

  19. Perioperative versus postoperative measurement of Taylor Spatial Frame mounting parameters.

    PubMed

    Sökücü, Sami; Demir, Bilal; Lapçin, Osman; Yavuz, Umut; Kabukçuoğlu, Yavuz S

    2014-01-01

    The aim of this study was to determine the differences, if any, between application parameters for the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) system obtained during surgery under fluoroscopy and after surgery from digital radiography. This retrospective study included 17 extremities of 15 patients (8 male, 7 female; mean age: 21.9 years, range: 10 to 55 years) who underwent TSF after deformity and fracture. Application parameters measured by fluoroscopy at the end of surgery after mounting the fixator were compared with parameters obtained from anteroposterior and lateral digital radiographs taken 1 day after surgery. Fixator was applied to the femur in 8 patients, tibia in 6 and radius in 3. Mean time to removal of the frame was 3.5 (range: 3 to 7) months. Mean perioperative anteroposterior, lateral and axial frame offsets of patients were 9.1 (range: 3 to 20) mm, 18.1 (range: 5 to 37) mm and 95.3 (range: 25 to 155) mm, respectively. Mean postoperative anteroposterior, lateral and axial frame offset radiographs were 11.8 (range: 2 to 30) mm, 18 (range: 6 to 47) mm and 109.5 (range: 28 to 195) mm, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). While measurements taken during operation may lengthen the duration in the operation room, fluoroscopy may provide better images and is easier to perform than digital radiography. On the other hand, there is no difference between measurements taken during perioperative fluoroscopy and postoperative digital radiography.

  20. Private Rogers L. Taylor: Prisoner of the Japanese

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-04-01

    cooking , its body closely resembled that of a human baby. Other soldiers recall their memories regarding the local fare on Bataan. Lajzer recounted...Horse meat stunk so bad it was revolting. The cooks would boil it and then fry it over an open fire so it could be eaten. … Believe me, mules...gathering wood and water for cooking but the worst was the burial detail, which Taylor begrudgingly performed. This is not a detail he spoke of

  1. Motor skill changes and neurophysiologic adaptation to recovery-oriented virtual rehabilitation of hand function in a person with subacute stroke: a case study

    PubMed Central

    Fluet, Gerard G.; Patel, Jigna; Qiu, Qinyin; Yarossi, Matthew; Massood, Supriya; Adamovich, Sergei V.; Tunik, Eugene; Merians, Alma S.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose The complexity of upper extremity (UE) behavior requires recovery of near normal neuromuscular function to minimize residual disability following a stroke. This requirement places a premium on spontaneous recovery and neuroplastic adaptation to rehabilitation by the lesioned hemisphere. Motor skill learning is frequently cited as a requirement for neuroplasticity. Studies examining the links between training, motor learning, neuroplasticity, and improvements in hand motor function are indicated. Methods This case study describes a patient with slow recovering hand and finger movement (Total Upper Extremity Fugl–Meyer examination score = 25/66, Wrist and Hand items = 2/24 on poststroke day 37) following a stroke. The patient received an intensive eight-session intervention utilizing simulated activities that focused on the recovery of finger extension, finger individuation, and pinch-grasp force modulation. Results Over the eight sessions, the patient demonstrated improvements on untrained transfer tasks, which suggest that motor learning had occurred, as well a dramatic increase in hand function and corresponding expansion of the cortical motor map area representing several key muscles of the paretic hand. Recovery of hand function and motor map expansion continued after discharge through the three-month retention testing. Conclusion This case study describes a neuroplasticity based intervention for UE hemiparesis and a model for examining the relationship between training, motor skill acquisition, neuroplasticity, and motor function changes. PMID:27669997

  2. Associations between results of post-stroke NDT-Bobath rehabilitation in gait parameters, ADL and hand functions.

    PubMed

    Mikołajewska, Emilia

    2013-01-01

    In patients after a stroke there are variable disorders. These patients often need rehabilitation in more than one area beceause of multiple limitations of the ability to perform everyday activities. The aim of the study was to assess correlations - statistical relationships between observed gait parameters, ADL and hand functions - results of rehabilitation of patients after ischaemic stroke according to the NDTBobath method for adults. The investigated group consisted of 60 patients after ischaemic stroke, who participated in the rehabilitation programme. 10 sessions of the NDT-Bobath therapy were provided in 2 weeks (10 days of the therapy). The calculation of correlations was made based on changes of parameters: Bobath Scale (to assess hand functions), Barthel Index (to assess ADL), gait velocity, cadence and stride lenght. Measurements were performed in every patient twice: on admission (before the therapy) and after last session of the therapy to assess rehabilitation effects. The main statistically relevant corellations observed in the study were as follows: in the whole group of patients: poor and moderate (negative) correlation between changes of gait parameters and Bobath Scale and Barthel Index, moderate and severe (negative) correlation between changes of gait parameters and Bobath Scale and Barthel Index in the group of women, correlation between changes in Bobath Scale and Barthel Index in the group of patients with left side of paresis, (negative) correlation between changes of gait parameters and Bobath Scale in group of patients younger than 68 years, moderate, high and very high correlations between changes in gait parameters in groups of women, men, younger than 68 years and older than 68 years. There have been observed statistically significant and favourable changes in the health status of patients, described by gait parameters, changes in hand functions and ADL. Based on the presented correlations there is an assumption that it is hard to

  3. A numerical simulation of finite-length Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Streett, C. L.; Hussaini, M. Y.

    1988-01-01

    Results from numerical simulations of finite-length Taylor-Couette flow are presented. Included are time-accurate and steady-state studies of the change in the nature of the symmetric two-cell/asymmetric one-cell bifurcation with varying aspect ratio and of the Reynolds number/aspect ratio locus of the two-cell/four-cell bifurcation. Preliminary results from wavy-vortex simulations at low aspect ratios are also presented.

  4. Mathematical model of Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities for viscoelastic fluids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rollin, Bertrand; Andrews, Malcolm J.

    2011-04-01

    We extended the Goncharov model [V. N. Goncharov, Phys. Rev. Lett.PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.88.134502 88, 134502 (2002)] for nonlinear Rayleigh-Taylor instability of perfect fluids to the case of Rivlin-Ericksen viscoelastic fluids [R. S. Rivlin and J. L. Ericksen, Rat. Mech. Anal. 4, 323 (1955)], with surface tension. For Rayleigh-Taylor instability, viscosity, surface tension, and viscoelasticity decrease the exponential growth rate predicted by linear stability analysis. In particular, we find that viscosity and surface tension decrease the terminal bubble velocity, whereas viscoelasticity is found to have no effect. All three properties increase the saturation height of the bubble. In Richmyer-Meshkov instability, the decay of the asymptotic velocity depends on the balance between viscosity and surface tension, and viscoelasticity tends to slow the asymptotic velocity decay.

  5. James Taylor (1859-1946): favourite disciple of Hughlings Jackson and William Gowers.

    PubMed

    Eadie, M J

    2013-01-01

    In neurological circles today the name James Taylor (1859-1946) is probably remembered mainly for his role in editing the Selected Writings of John Hughlings Jackson, the most readily available source of Jackson's contributions to neurological knowledge. Taylors' own neurological achievements are largely or entirely forgotten, but in his day he was an influential figure whose career linked the great figures of the golden era of late nineteenth century British neurology to the neurology of the first half of the twentieth century. Not only was he a junior professional colleague and close friend of both John Hughlings Jackson and William Gowers, he also produced a substantial corpus of neurological writings in his own right, including a textbook of child neurology and the first English language account of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord.

  6. An Improved Power Quality Based Sheppard-Taylor Converter Fed BLDC Motor Drive

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Singh, Bhim; Bist, Vashist

    2015-12-01

    This paper deals with the design and analysis of a power factor correction based Sheppard-Taylor converter fed brushless dc motor (BLDCM) drive. The speed of the BLDCM is controlled by adjusting the dc link voltage of the voltage source inverter (VSI) feeding BLDCM. Moreover, a low frequency switching of the VSI is used for electronically commutating the BLDCM for reduced switching losses. The Sheppard-Taylor converter is designed to operate in continuous conduction mode to achieve an improved power quality at the ac mains for a wide range of speed control and supply voltage variation. The BLDCM drive is designed and its performance is simulated in a MATLAB/Simulink environment to achieve the power quality indices within the limits of the international power quality standard IEC-61000-3-2.

  7. The Rayleigh-Taylor instability in a self-gravitating two-layer viscous sphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mondal, Puskar; Korenaga, Jun

    2018-03-01

    The dispersion relation of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability in the spherical geometry is of profound importance in the context of the Earth's core formation. Here we present a complete derivation of this dispersion relation for a self-gravitating two-layer viscous sphere. Such relation is, however, obtained through the solution of a complex transcendental equation, and it is difficult to gain physical insights directly from the transcendental equation itself. We thus also derive an empirical formula to compute the growth rate, by combining the Monte Carlo sampling of the relevant model parameter space with linear regression. Our analysis indicates that the growth rate of Rayleigh-Taylor instability is most sensitive to the viscosity of inner layer in a physical setting that is most relevant to the core formation.

  8. Individual left-hand and right-hand intra-digit representations in human primary somatosensory cortex.

    PubMed

    Schweisfurth, Meike A; Frahm, Jens; Schweizer, Renate

    2015-09-01

    Individual intra-digit somatotopy of all phalanges of the middle and little finger of the right and left hand was studied by functional magnetic resonance imaging in 12 healthy subjects. Phalanges were tactilely stimulated and activation in BA 3b of the human primary somatosensory cortex could be observed for each individual phalanx. Activation peaks were further analysed using the Direction/Order (DiOr) method, which identifies somatotopy, if a significantly high number of subjects exhibit ordered distal-to-proximal phalanx representions along a similar direction. Based on DiOr, ordered and similar-direction-aligned intra-digit maps across subjects were found at the left hand for the little and middle finger and at the right hand for the little finger. In these digits the proximal phalanges were represented more medially along the course of the central sulcus than the distal phalanges. This is contrasted by the intra-digit maps for the middle finger of the right hand, which showed larger inter-subject variations of phalanx alignments without a similar within-digit representation across subjects. As all subjects were right-handed and as the middle finger of the dominant hand probably plays a more individual role in everyday tactile performance than the little finger of the right hand and all left-hand digits, the observed variation might reflect a functional somatotopy based on individual use of that particular digit at the dominant hand. © 2015 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  9. The solution of the point kinetics equations via converged accelerated Taylor series (CATS)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ganapol, B.; Picca, P.; Previti, A.

    This paper deals with finding accurate solutions of the point kinetics equations including non-linear feedback, in a fast, efficient and straightforward way. A truncated Taylor series is coupled to continuous analytical continuation to provide the recurrence relations to solve the ordinary differential equations of point kinetics. Non-linear (Wynn-epsilon) and linear (Romberg) convergence accelerations are employed to provide highly accurate results for the evaluation of Taylor series expansions and extrapolated values of neutron and precursor densities at desired edits. The proposed Converged Accelerated Taylor Series, or CATS, algorithm automatically performs successive mesh refinements until the desired accuracy is obtained, making usemore » of the intermediate results for converged initial values at each interval. Numerical performance is evaluated using case studies available from the literature. Nearly perfect agreement is found with the literature results generally considered most accurate. Benchmark quality results are reported for several cases of interest including step, ramp, zigzag and sinusoidal prescribed insertions and insertions with adiabatic Doppler feedback. A larger than usual (9) number of digits is included to encourage honest benchmarking. The benchmark is then applied to the enhanced piecewise constant algorithm (EPCA) currently being developed by the second author. (authors)« less

  10. Influence of homogeneous magnetic fields on the flow of a ferrofluid in the Taylor-Couette system.

    PubMed

    Altmeyer, S; Hoffmann, Ch; Leschhorn, A; Lücke, M

    2010-07-01

    We investigate numerically the influence of a homogeneous magnetic field on a ferrofluid in the gap between two concentric, independently rotating cylinders. The full Navier-Stokes equations are solved with a combination of a finite difference method and a Galerkin method. Structure, dynamics, symmetry properties, bifurcation, and stability behavior of different vortex structures are investigated for axial and transversal magnetic fields, as well as combinations of them. We show that a transversal magnetic field modulates the Taylor vortex flow and the spiral vortex flow. Thus, a transversal magnetic field induces wavy structures: wavy Taylor vortex flow (wTVF) and wavy spiral vortex flow. In contrast to the classic wTVF, which is a secondarily bifurcating structure, these magnetically generated wavy Taylor vortices are pinned by the magnetic field, i.e., they are stationary and they appear via a primary forward bifurcation out of the basic state of circular Couette flow.

  11. Rayleigh-Taylor instability-fascinating gateway to the study of fluid dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Benjamin, Robert F.

    1999-09-01

    A series of low-cost simple, "kitchen-physics" experiments demonstrates Rayleigh-Taylor Instability (RTI), the growth of ripples at an interface between fluids when the higher-density fluid is on top. We also describe the importance of RTI in ocean dynamics and commercial products.

  12. Inertial migration of particles in Taylor-Couette flows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Majji, Madhu V.; Morris, Jeffrey F.

    2018-03-01

    An experimental study of inertial migration of neutrally buoyant particles in the circular Couette flow (CCF), Taylor vortex flow (TVF) and wavy vortex flow (WVF) is reported. This work considers a concentric cylinder Taylor-Couette device with a stationary outer cylinder and rotating inner cylinder. The device has a radius ratio of η = ri/ro = 0.877, where ri and ro are the inner and outer radii of the flow annulus. The ratio of the annular width between the cylinders (δ = ro - ri) and the particle diameter (dp) is α = δ/dp = 20. For η = 0.877, the flow of a Newtonian fluid undergoes transitions from CCF to TVF and TVF to WVF at Reynolds numbers Re = 120 and 151, respectively, and for the dilute suspensions studied here, these critical Reynolds numbers are almost unchanged. In CCF, particles were observed to migrate, due to the competition between the shear gradient of the flow and the wall interactions, to an equilibrium location near the middle of the annulus with an offset toward the inner cylinder. In TVF, the vortex motion causes the particles to be exposed to the shear gradient and wall interactions in a different manner, resulting in a circular equilibrium region in each vortex. The radius of this circular region grows with increase in Re. In WVF, the azimuthal waviness results in fairly well-distributed particles across the annulus.

  13. Shock, release and Taylor impact of the semicrystalline thermoplastic polytetrafluoroethylene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bourne, N. K.; Brown, E. N.; Millett, J. C. F.; Gray, G. T.

    2008-04-01

    The high strain-rate response of polymers is a subject that has gathered interest over recent years due to their increasing engineering importance, particularly in load bearing applications subject to extremes of pressure and strain rate. The current work presents two specific sets of experiments interrogating the effect of dynamic, high-pressure loading in the regime of the phase II to phase III pressure-induced crystalline phase transition in polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). These are gas-gun driven plate- and Taylor impact. Together these experiments highlight several effects associated with the dynamic, pressure-induced phase transitions in PTFE. An elevated release wave speed shows evidence of a pressure-induced phase change at a stress commensurate with that observed statically. It is shown that convergence between analytic derivations of release wave speed and the data requires the phase II to III transition to occur. Taylor impact is an integrated test that highlights continuum behavior that has origin in mesoscale response. There is a rapid transition from ductile to brittle behavior observed that occurs at a pressure consistent with this phase transition.

  14. Improvements in bimanual hand function after baby-CIMT in two-year old children with unilateral cerebral palsy: A retrospective study.

    PubMed

    Nordstrand, Linda; Holmefur, Marie; Kits, Annika; Eliasson, Ann-Christin

    2015-01-01

    The common assumption that early-onset intensive intervention positively affects motor development has rarely been investigated for hand function in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP). This retrospective study explored the possible impact of baby constraint-induced movement therapy (baby-CIMT) on hand function at two years of age. We hypothesized that baby-CIMT in the first year of life would lead to better bimanual hand use at two years of age than would not receiving baby-CIMT. The Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA) was administered at age 21 months (SD 2.4 months) in 72 children with unilateral CP, 31 of who received baby-CIMT. When dividing the children into four functional levels based on AHA, the proportional distribution differed between the groups in favour of baby-CIMT. Logistic regression analysis indicated that children in the baby-CIMT group were more likely than were children in the no baby-CIMT group to have a high functional level, even when controlling for the effect of brain lesion type (OR 5.83, 95% CI 1.44-23.56, p = 0.001). However, no difference was found between groups in the odds of having a very low functional level (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.08-1.17, p = 0.084). The result shows that baby-CIMT at early age can have a positive effect. Children who received baby-CIMT were six times more likely to have a high functional level at two years of age than were children in the no baby-CIMT group. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Taylor impact of glass bars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Murray, Natalie; Bourne, Neil; Field, John

    1997-07-01

    Brar and Bless pioneeered the use of plate impact upon bars as a technique for investigating the 1D stress loading of glass. We wish to extend this technique by applying VISAR and embedded stress gauge measurements to a symmetrical version of the test. In this configuration two rods impact one upon the other in a symmetrical version of the Taylor test geometry in which the impact is perfectly rigid in the centre of mass frame. Previous work in the laboratory has characterised the three glass types (float, borosilicate and a high density lead glass). These experiments will identify the 1D stress failure mechanisms from high-speed photography and the stress and particle velocity histories will be interpreted in the light of these results. The differences in response of the three glasses will be highlighted.

  16. New possibilities of improving the function of the hand of patients with spastic hemiplegia.

    PubMed

    Kiwerski, J

    1984-01-01

    The report presents a therapeutic proposal aiming at the improvement of the functions of the paretic hand in spastic hemiplegics. To achieve this aim the author suggests a combination of phenolization of the medial and ulnar nerves and the stimulation training of the wrist and fingers extensors. An implanted stimulator is used; the stimulator electrodes are fixed to the radial nerve. The strengthening of the extensors during the period of increased muscular tension of the flexors makes it possible to improve the functions of the paretic upper extremity.

  17. Treatment of fourth-degree hand burns.

    PubMed

    Nuchtern, J G; Engrav, L H; Nakamura, D Y; Dutcher, K A; Heimbach, D M; Vedder, N B

    1995-01-01

    Fourth-degree hand burns are rare but devastating injuries. They cannot be grafted readily but often require flaps and amputation, and impairment is significant. We report our 10-year experience (1981 to 1990) with deep hand burns to characterize our treatment and outcome. A total of 25 patients (35 hands) were treated. Eight local flaps, nine distant flaps, and two free-tissue transfers were performed. Eleven hands were treated with K-wire immobilization and grafting. Thirty-three amputations were done. Postburn function was evaluated in 25 salvaged hands. Eleven hands had good outcomes, whereas seven had moderate sequelae and seven were severely affected. Patients who were treated with flap coverage of exposed tendons and joints had better functional outcomes than those treated with delayed closure with immobilization and grafting. The excellent outcomes in the flap coverage group justifies the added commitment of technical and therapeutic resources that this treatment requires.

  18. Use of the Priestley-Taylor evaporation equation for soil water limited conditions in a small forest clearcut

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Flint, A.L.; Childs, S.W.

    1991-01-01

    The Priestley-Taylor equation, a simplification of the Penman equation, was used to allow calculations of evapotranspiration under conditions where soil water supply limits evapotranspiration. The Priestley-Taylor coefficient, ??, was calculated to incorporate an exponential decrease in evapotranspiration as soil water content decreases. The method is appropriate for use when detailed meteorological measurements are not available. The data required to determine the parameter for the ?? coefficient are net radiation, soil heat flux, average air temperature, and soil water content. These values can be obtained from measurements or models. The dataset used in this report pertains to a partially vegetated clearcut forest site in southwest Oregon with soil depths ranging from 0.48 to 0.70 m and weathered bedrock below that. Evapotranspiration was estimated using the Bowen ratio method, and the calculated Priestley-Taylor coefficient was fitted to these estimates by nonlinear regression. The calculated Priestley-Taylor coefficient (?????) was found to be approximately 0.9 when the soil was near field capacity (0.225 cm3 cm-3). It was not until soil water content was less than 0.14 cm3 cm-3 that soil water supply limited evapotranspiration. The soil reached a final residual water content near 0.05 cm3 cm-3 at the end of the growing season. ?? 1991.

  19. Nonlinear viscoelasticity of entangled wormlike micellar fluid under large-amplitude oscillatory shear: Role of elastic Taylor-Couette instability

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Majumdar, Sayantan; Sood, A. K.

    2014-06-01

    The role of elastic Taylor-Couette flow instabilities in the dynamic nonlinear viscoelastic response of an entangled wormlike micellar fluid is studied by large-amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) rheology and in situ polarized light scattering over a wide range of strain and angular frequency values, both above and below the linear crossover point. Well inside the nonlinear regime, higher harmonic decomposition of the resulting stress signal reveals that the normalized third harmonic I3/I1 shows a power-law behavior with strain amplitude. In addition, I3/I1 and the elastic component of stress amplitude σ0E show a very prominent maximum at the strain value where the number density (nv) of the Taylor vortices is maximum. A subsequent increase in applied strain (γ) results in the distortions of the vortices and a concomitant decrease in nv, accompanied by a sharp drop in I3 and σ0E. The peak position of the spatial correlation function of the scattered intensity along the vorticity direction also captures the crossover. Lissajous plots indicate an intracycle strain hardening for the values of γ corresponding to the peak of I3, similar to that observed for hard-sphere glasses.

  20. An integral equation-based numerical solver for Taylor states in toroidal geometries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    O'Neil, Michael; Cerfon, Antoine J.

    2018-04-01

    We present an algorithm for the numerical calculation of Taylor states in toroidal and toroidal-shell geometries using an analytical framework developed for the solution to the time-harmonic Maxwell equations. Taylor states are a special case of what are known as Beltrami fields, or linear force-free fields. The scheme of this work relies on the generalized Debye source representation of Maxwell fields and an integral representation of Beltrami fields which immediately yields a well-conditioned second-kind integral equation. This integral equation has a unique solution whenever the Beltrami parameter λ is not a member of a discrete, countable set of resonances which physically correspond to spontaneous symmetry breaking. Several numerical examples relevant to magnetohydrodynamic equilibria calculations are provided. Lastly, our approach easily generalizes to arbitrary geometries, both bounded and unbounded, and of varying genus.

  1. Rehabilitation of hand in subacute tetraplegic patients based on brain computer interface and functional electrical stimulation: a randomised pilot study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Osuagwu, Bethel C. A.; Wallace, Leslie; Fraser, Mathew; Vuckovic, Aleksandra

    2016-12-01

    Objective. To compare neurological and functional outcomes between two groups of hospitalised patients with subacute tetraplegia. Approach. Seven patients received 20 sessions of brain computer interface (BCI) controlled functional electrical stimulation (FES) while five patients received the same number of sessions of passive FES for both hands. The neurological assessment measures were event related desynchronization (ERD) during movement attempt, Somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) of the ulnar and median nerve; assessment of hand function involved the range of motion (ROM) of wrist and manual muscle test. Main results. Patients in both groups initially had intense ERD during movement attempt that was not restricted to the sensory-motor cortex. Following the treatment, ERD cortical activity restored towards the activity in able-bodied people in BCI-FES group only, remaining wide-spread in FES group. Likewise, SSEP returned in 3 patients in BCI-FES group, having no changes in FES group. The ROM of the wrist improved in both groups. Muscle strength significantly improved for both hands in BCI-FES group. For FES group, a significant improvement was noticed for right hand flexor muscles only. Significance. Combined BCI-FES therapy results in better neurological recovery and better improvement of muscle strength than FES alone. For spinal cord injured patients, BCI-FES should be considered as a therapeutic tool rather than solely a long-term assistive device for the restoration of a lost function.

  2. Distribution and abundance of fungi in the soils of Taylor Valley, Antarctica

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Connell, L.; Redman, R.; Craig, S.; Rodriguez, R.

    2006-01-01

    The occurrence and distribution of culturable fungi in Taylor Valley, Antarctica was assessed in terms of soil habitat. Soil transects throughout the valley revealed differential habitat utilization between filamentous and non-filamentous (yeast and yeast-like) fungi. In addition, there were significant differences in species distribution patterns with respect to soil pH, moisture, distance from marine coastline, carbon, chlorophyll a, salinity, elevation and solar inputs. Filamentous fungal abundance is most closely associated with habitats having higher pH, and soil moistures. These close associations were not found with yeast and yeast-like fungi demonstrating that yeast and yeast-like fungi utilize a broader range of habitat. An intensive survey of the Victoria Land is necessary to gain a better understanding of their role in soil functioning and nutrient cycling processes. ?? 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Implication of Taylor's hypothesis on amplitude modulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Howland, Michael; Yang, Xiang

    2017-11-01

    Amplitude modulation is a physical phenomenon which describes the non-linear inter-scale interaction between large and small scales in a turbulent wall-bounded flow. The amplitude of the small scale fluctuations are modulated by the large scale flow structures. Due to the increase of amplitude modulation as a function of Reynolds number (Reτ = δuτ / ν), this phenomenon is frequently studied using experimental temporal 1D signals, taken using hot-wire anemometry. Typically, Taylor's frozen turbulence hypothesis has been invoked where the convection by velocity fluctuations is neglected and the mean velocity is used as the convective velocity. At high Reynolds numbers, turbulent fluctuations are comparable to the mean velocity in the near wall region (y+ O(10)), and as a result, using a constant global convective velocity systematically locally compresses or stretches a velocity signal when converting from temporal to spatial domain given a positive or negative fluctuation respectively. Despite this, temporal hot-wire data from wind tunnel or field experiments of high Reynolds number boundary layer flows can still be used for measuring modulation provided that the local fluid velocity is used as the local convective velocity. MH is funded through the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship under Grant No. DGE-1656518 and the Stanford Graduate Fellowship. XY is funded by the US AFOSR, Grant No. 1194592-1-TAAHO monitored by Dr. Ivett Leyva.

  4. The Inhibition of the Rayleigh-Taylor Instability by Rotation.

    PubMed

    Baldwin, Kyle A; Scase, Matthew M; Hill, Richard J A

    2015-07-01

    It is well-established that the Coriolis force that acts on fluid in a rotating system can act to stabilise otherwise unstable flows. Chandrasekhar considered theoretically the effect of the Coriolis force on the Rayleigh-Taylor instability, which occurs at the interface between a dense fluid lying on top of a lighter fluid under gravity, concluding that rotation alone could not stabilise this system indefinitely. Recent numerical work suggests that rotation may, nevertheless, slow the growth of the instability. Experimental verification of these results using standard techniques is problematic, owing to the practical difficulty in establishing the initial conditions. Here, we present a new experimental technique for studying the Rayleigh-Taylor instability under rotation that side-steps the problems encountered with standard techniques by using a strong magnetic field to destabilize an otherwise stable system. We find that rotation about an axis normal to the interface acts to retard the growth rate of the instability and stabilise long wavelength modes; the scale of the observed structures decreases with increasing rotation rate, asymptoting to a minimum wavelength controlled by viscosity. We present a critical rotation rate, dependent on Atwood number and the aspect ratio of the system, for stabilising the most unstable mode.

  5. The Inhibition of the Rayleigh-Taylor Instability by Rotation

    PubMed Central

    Baldwin, Kyle A.; Scase, Matthew M.; Hill, Richard J. A.

    2015-01-01

    It is well-established that the Coriolis force that acts on fluid in a rotating system can act to stabilise otherwise unstable flows. Chandrasekhar considered theoretically the effect of the Coriolis force on the Rayleigh-Taylor instability, which occurs at the interface between a dense fluid lying on top of a lighter fluid under gravity, concluding that rotation alone could not stabilise this system indefinitely. Recent numerical work suggests that rotation may, nevertheless, slow the growth of the instability. Experimental verification of these results using standard techniques is problematic, owing to the practical difficulty in establishing the initial conditions. Here, we present a new experimental technique for studying the Rayleigh-Taylor instability under rotation that side-steps the problems encountered with standard techniques by using a strong magnetic field to destabilize an otherwise stable system. We find that rotation about an axis normal to the interface acts to retard the growth rate of the instability and stabilise long wavelength modes; the scale of the observed structures decreases with increasing rotation rate, asymptoting to a minimum wavelength controlled by viscosity. We present a critical rotation rate, dependent on Atwood number and the aspect ratio of the system, for stabilising the most unstable mode. PMID:26130005

  6. Hand Function in Relation to Brain Lesions and Corticomotor-Projection Pattern in Children with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Holmstrom, Linda; Vollmer, Brigitte; Tedroff, Kristina; Islam, Mominul; Persson, Jonas Ke; Kits, Annika; Forssberg, Hans; Eliasson, Ann-Christin

    2010-01-01

    Aim: To investigate relationships between hand function, brain lesions, and corticomotor projections in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP). Method: The study included 17 children (nine males, eight females; mean age 11.4 [SD 2.4] range 7-16y), with unilateral CP at Gross Motor Function Classification System level I and Manual Ability…

  7. Subscales to the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale in Three Chronically Ill Populations.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moore, Peter N.; And Others

    1984-01-01

    Examines factors of anxiety in the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale in 150 asthma, tuberculosis, and chronic pain patients. Key cluster analysis revealed five clusters: restlessness, embarrassment, sensitivity, physiological anxiety, and self-confidence. Embarrassment is fairly dependent on the other factors. (JAC)

  8. Crossmodal representation of a functional robotic hand arises after extensive training in healthy participants.

    PubMed

    Marini, Francesco; Tagliabue, Chiara F; Sposito, Ambra V; Hernandez-Arieta, Alejandro; Brugger, Peter; Estévez, Natalia; Maravita, Angelo

    2014-01-01

    The way in which humans represent their own bodies is critical in guiding their interactions with the environment. To achieve successful body-space interactions, the body representation is strictly connected with that of the space immediately surrounding it through efficient visuo-tactile crossmodal integration. Such a body-space integrated representation is not fixed, but can be dynamically modulated by the use of external tools. Our study aims to explore the effect of using a complex tool, namely a functional prosthesis, on crossmodal visuo-tactile spatial interactions in healthy participants. By using the crossmodal visuo-tactile congruency paradigm, we found that prolonged training with a mechanical hand capable of distal hand movements and providing sensory feedback induces a pattern of interference, which is not observed after a brief training, between visual stimuli close to the prosthesis and touches on the body. These results suggest that after extensive, but not short, training the functional prosthesis acquires a visuo-tactile crossmodal representation akin to real limbs. This finding adds to previous evidence for the embodiment of functional prostheses in amputees, and shows that their use may also improve the crossmodal combination of somatosensory feedback delivered by the prosthesis with visual stimuli in the space around it, thus effectively augmenting the patients' visuomotor abilities. © 2013 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  9. HandTutor™ enhanced hand rehabilitation after stroke--a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Carmeli, Eli; Peleg, Sara; Bartur, Gadi; Elbo, Enbal; Vatine, Jean-Jacques

    2011-12-01

    This study assessed the potential therapeutic benefi t of using HandTutor™ in combination with traditional rehabilitation in a post-stroke sub-acute population. The study compares an experimental group receiving traditional therapy combined with HandTutorTM treatment, against a control group receiving only traditional therapy. An assessor-blinded, randomized controlled pilot trial, was conducted in the Reuth rehabilitation unit in Israel. Thirty-one stroke patients in the sub-acute phase, were randomly assigned to one of the two groups (experimental or control) in sets of three. The experimental group (n = 16) underwent a hand rehabilitation programme using the HandTutorTM combined with traditional therapy. The control group (n = 15) received only traditional therapy. The treatment schedules for both groups were of similar duration and frequency. Improvements were evaluated using three indicators: 1) The Brunnström-Fugl-Meyer (FM) test, 2) the Box and Blocks (B&B) test and 3) improvement parameters as determined by the HandTutorTM software. Following 15 consecutive treatment sessions, a signifi cant improvement was observed within the experimental group (95% confi dence intervals) compared with the control group: B&B p = 0.015; FM p = 0.041, HandTutor™ performance accuracy on x axis and performance accuracy on y axis p < 0.0003. The results from this pilot study support further investigation of the use of the HandTutorTM in combination with traditional occupational therapy and physiotherapy during post stroke hand function rehabilitation.

  10. High-Speed Solution of Spacecraft Trajectory Problems Using Taylor Series Integration

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, James R.; Martini, Michael C.

    2010-01-01

    It has been known for some time that Taylor series (TS) integration is among the most efficient and accurate numerical methods in solving differential equations. However, the full benefit of the method has yet to be realized in calculating spacecraft trajectories, for two main reasons. First, most applications of Taylor series to trajectory propagation have focused on relatively simple problems of orbital motion or on specific problems and have not provided general applicability. Second, applications that have been more general have required use of a preprocessor, which inevitably imposes constraints on computational efficiency. The latter approach includes the work of Berryman et al., who solved the planetary n-body problem with relativistic effects. Their work specifically noted the computational inefficiencies arising from use of a preprocessor and pointed out the potential benefit of manually coding derivative routines. In this Engineering Note, we report on a systematic effort to directly implement Taylor series integration in an operational trajectory propagation code: the Spacecraft N-Body Analysis Program (SNAP). The present Taylor series implementation is unique in that it applies to spacecraft virtually anywhere in the solar system and can be used interchangeably with another integration method. SNAP is a high-fidelity trajectory propagator that includes force models for central body gravitation with N X N harmonics, other body gravitation with N X N harmonics, solar radiation pressure, atmospheric drag (for Earth orbits), and spacecraft thrusting (including shadowing). The governing equations are solved using an eighth-order Runge-Kutta Fehlberg (RKF) single-step method with variable step size control. In the present effort, TS is implemented by way of highly integrated subroutines that can be used interchangeably with RKF. This makes it possible to turn TS on or off during various phases of a mission. Current TS force models include central body

  11. Anti-solvent crystallization of L-threonine in Taylor crystallizers and MSMPR crystallizer: Effect of fluid dynamic motions on crystal size, shape, and recovery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Sooyun; Lee, Choul-Ho; Kim, Woo-Sik

    2017-07-01

    The influence of the fluid dynamic motions of a periodic Taylor vortex and random turbulent eddy on the anti-solvent crystallization of L-threonine was investigated. The Taylor vortex flow and random turbulent eddy flow were generated by the inner cylinder rotation in a Couette-Taylor (CT) crystallizer and the impeller agitation in a mixed-suspension mixed product removal (MSMPR) crystallizer, respectively. Furthermore, the circumferentially sinusoidal fluctuation of a Taylor vortex was induced in an elliptical Couette-Taylor (ECT) crystallizer . The periodic Taylor vortex flows in the CT and ECT crystallizers resulted in a smaller crystal size and higher crystal recovery ratio of L-threonine than the random turbulent flow in the MSMPR crystallizer due to induction of a higher supersaturation, resulting in a higher nucleation in the CT and ECT crystallizers than in the MSMPR crystallizer. Thus, the crystal size was reduced and the crystal recovery ratio enhanced when increasing the rotation/agitation speed and feed flow rate in the CT, ECT, and MSMPR crystallizers. When increasing the temperature, the crystal size and crystal recovery ratio were both increased due an enhanced mass transfer for crystal growth. The crystal morphology changes according to the fluid dynamic motion with various crystallization conditions were well correlated in terms of the supersaturation.

  12. Scar Management of the Burned Hand

    PubMed Central

    Sorkin, Michael; Cholok, David; Levi, Benjamin

    2017-01-01

    Unimpaired hand function is critical in almost all activities of daily living. Burn injury can result in hypertrophic scar formation that can lead to debilitating functional deficits and poor aesthetic outcomes. Initial algorithms of acute burn management involve early debridement and skin grafting and early mobilization to prevent formation of hypertrophic scarring and ultimately digit contractures. While non-operative modalities in the early phase of scar maturation are critical to minimize hypertrophic scar formation, surgical management is often indicated in order to restore hand function. The essential tenant of operative scar management is release of tension, which can often be achieved through local tissue rearrangement. Laser therapy has emerged as a central pillar of subsequent scar rehabilitation with several modalities that address scar texture, color, pruritis and thickness. These can be utilized in conjunction with local corticosteroid treatment and other emerging modalities to modulate the scar and achieve optimal hand function. These treatment tools provide an effective resource for the reconstructive surgeon to treat hypertrophic hand scars. PMID:28363297

  13. Chapter 1: Executive Summary - 2003 Assessment of Undiscovered Oil and Gas Resources in the Upper Cretaceous Navarro and Taylor Groups, Western Gulf Province, Gulf Coast Region, Texas

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    ,

    2006-01-01

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently completed an assessment of the undiscovered oil and gas potential of the Upper Cretaceous Navarro and Taylor Groups in the Western Gulf Province of the Gulf Coast region (fig. 1) as part of a national oil and gas assessment effort (USGS Navarro and Taylor Groups Assessment Team, 2004). The assessment of the petroleum potential of the Navarro and Taylor Groups was based on the general geologic elements used to define a total petroleum system (TPS), including hydrocarbon source rocks (source rock maturation, hydrocarbon generation and migration), reservoir rocks (sequence stratigraphy and petrophysical properties), and hydrocarbon traps (trap formation and timing). Using this geologic framework, the USGS defined five assessment units (AU) in the Navarro and Taylor Groups as parts of a single TPS, the Smackover-Austin-Eagle Ford Composite TPS: Travis Volcanic Mounds Oil AU, Uvalde Volcanic Mounds Gas and Oil AU, Navarro-Taylor Updip Oil and Gas AU, Navarro-Taylor Downdip Gas and Oil AU, and Navarro-Taylor Slope-Basin Gas AU (table 1).

  14. Left, right, left, right, eyes to the front! Müller-Lyer bias in grasping is not a function of hand used, hand preferred or visual hemifield, but foveation does matter.

    PubMed

    van der Kamp, John; de Wit, Matthieu M; Masters, Rich S W

    2012-04-01

    We investigated whether the control of movement of the left hand is more likely to involve the use of allocentric information than movements performed with the right hand. Previous studies (Gonzalez et al. in J Neurophys 95:3496-3501, 2006; De Grave et al. in Exp Br Res 193:421-427, 2009) have reported contradictory findings in this respect. In the present study, right-handed participants (N = 12) and left-handed participants (N = 12) made right- and left-handed grasps to foveated objects and peripheral, non-foveated objects that were located in the right or left visual hemifield and embedded within a Müller-Lyer illusion. They were also asked to judge the size of the object by matching their hand aperture to its length. Hand apertures did not show significant differences in illusory bias as a function of hand used, handedness or visual hemifield. However, the illusory effect was significantly larger for perception than for action, and for the non-foveated compared to foveated objects. No significant illusory biases were found for reach movement times. These findings are consistent with the two-visual system model that holds that the use of allocentric information is more prominent in perception than in movement control. We propose that the increased involvement of allocentric information in movements toward peripheral, non-foveated objects may be a consequence of more awkward, less automatized grasps of nonfoveated than foveated objects. The current study does not support the conjecture that the control of left-handed and right-handed grasps is predicated on different sources of information.

  15. Management of post burn hand deformities

    PubMed Central

    Sabapathy, S. Raja; Bajantri, Babu; Bharathi, R. Ravindra

    2010-01-01

    The hand is ranked among the three most frequent sites of burns scar contracture deformity. One of the major determinants of the quality of life in burns survivors is the functionality of the hands. Burns deformities, although largely preventable, nevertheless do occur when appropriate treatment is not provided in the acute situation or when they are part of a major burns. Reconstructive procedures can greatly improve the function of the hands. Appropriate choice of procedures and timing of surgery followed by supervised physiotherapy can be a boon for a burns survivor. PMID:21321661

  16. A Study of Heat Transfer and Flow Characteristics of Rising Taylor Bubbles

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scammell, Alexander David

    2016-01-01

    Practical application of flow boiling to ground- and space-based thermal management systems hinges on the ability to predict the systems heat removal capabilities under expected operating conditions. Research in this field has shown that the heat transfer coefficient within two-phase heat exchangers can be largely dependent on the experienced flow regime. This finding has inspired an effort to develop mechanistic heat transfer models for each flow pattern which are likely to outperform traditional empirical correlations. As a contribution to the effort, this work aimed to identify the heat transfer mechanisms for the slug flow regime through analysis of individual Taylor bubbles.An experimental apparatus was developed to inject single vapor Taylor bubbles into co-currently flowing liquid HFE 7100. The heat transfer was measured as the bubble rose through a 6 mm inner diameter heated tube using an infrared thermography technique. High-speed flow visualization was obtained and the bubble film thickness measured in an adiabatic section. Experiments were conducted at various liquid mass fluxes (43-200 kgm2s) and gravity levels (0.01g-1.8g) to characterize the effect of bubble drift velocityon the heat transfer mechanisms. Variable gravity testing was conducted during a NASA parabolic flight campaign.Results from the experiments showed that the drift velocity strongly affects the hydrodynamics and heat transfer of single elongated bubbles. At low gravity levels, bubbles exhibited shapes characteristic of capillary flows and the heat transfer enhancement due to the bubble was dominated by conduction through the thin film. At moderate to high gravity, traditional Taylor bubbles provided small values of enhancement within the film, but large peaks in the wake heat transfer occurred due to turbulent vortices induced by the film plunging into the trailing liquid slug. Characteristics of the wake heat transfer profiles were analyzed and related to the predicted velocity field

  17. Non-planar one-loop Parke-Taylor factors in the CHY approach for quadratic propagators

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmadiniaz, Naser; Gomez, Humberto; Lopez-Arcos, Cristhiam

    2018-05-01

    In this work we have studied the Kleiss-Kuijf relations for the recently introduced Parke-Taylor factors at one-loop in the CHY approach, that reproduce quadratic Feynman propagators. By doing this, we were able to identify the non-planar one-loop Parke-Taylor factors. In order to check that, in fact, these new factors can describe non-planar amplitudes, we applied them to the bi-adjoint Φ3 theory. As a byproduct, we found a new type of graphs that we called the non-planar CHY-graphs. These graphs encode all the information for the subleading order at one-loop, and there is not an equivalent of these in the Feynman formalism.

  18. Applications of Taylor-Galerkin finite element method to compressible internal flow problems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sohn, Jeong L.; Kim, Yongmo; Chung, T. J.

    1989-01-01

    A two-step Taylor-Galerkin finite element method with Lapidus' artificial viscosity scheme is applied to several test cases for internal compressible inviscid flow problems. Investigations for the effect of supersonic/subsonic inlet and outlet boundary conditions on computational results are particularly emphasized.

  19. A new data processing technique for Rayleigh-Taylor instability growth experiments

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yuan, Yongteng; Tu, Shaoyong; Miao, Wenyong

    Typical face-on experiments for Rayleigh-Taylor instability study involve the time-resolved radiography of an accelerated foil with line-of-sight of the radiography along the direction of motion. The usual method which derives perturbation amplitudes from the face-on images reverses the actual image transmission procedure, so the obtained results will have a large error in the case of large optical depth. In order to improve the accuracy of data processing, a new data processing technique has been developed to process the face-on images. This technique based on convolution theorem, refined solutions of optical depth can be achieved by solving equations. Furthermore, we discussmore » both techniques for image processing, including the influence of modulation transfer function of imaging system and the backlighter spatial profile. Besides, we use the two methods to the process the experimental results in Shenguang-II laser facility and the comparison shows that the new method effectively improve the accuracy of data processing.« less

  20. A Combined fMRI and DTI Examination of Functional Language Lateralization and Arcuate Fasciculus Structure: Effects of Degree versus Direction of Hand Preference

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Propper, Ruthe E.; O'Donnell, Lauren J.; Whalen, Stephen; Tie, Yanmei; Norton, Isaiah H.; Suarez, Ralph O.; Zollei, Lilla; Radmanesh, Alireza; Golby, Alexandra J.

    2010-01-01

    The present study examined the relationship between hand preference degree and direction, functional language lateralization in Broca's and Wernicke's areas, and structural measures of the arcuate fasciculus. Results revealed an effect of degree of hand preference on arcuate fasciculus structure, such that consistently-handed individuals,…

  1. Hand grip strength and cognitive function among elderly cancer survivors.

    PubMed

    Yang, Lin; Koyanagi, Ai; Smith, Lee; Hu, Liang; Colditz, Graham A; Toriola, Adetunji T; López Sánchez, Guillermo Felipe; Vancampfort, Davy; Hamer, Mark; Stubbs, Brendon; Waldhör, Thomas

    2018-01-01

    We evaluated the associations of handgrip strength and cognitive function in cancer survivors ≥ 60 years old using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Data in two waves of NHANES (2011-2014) were aggregated. Handgrip strength in kilogram (kg) was defined as the maximum value achieved using either hand. Two cognitive function tests were conducted among adults 60 years and older. The Animal Fluency Test (AFT) examines categorical verbal fluency (a component of executive function), and the Digital Symbol Substitution test (DSST) assesses processing speed, sustained attention, and working memory. Survey analysis procedures were used to account for the complex sampling design of the NHANES. Multiple linear regression models were used to estimate associations of handgrip strength with cognitive test scores, adjusting for confounders (age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, smoking status, depressive symptoms and leisure time physical activity). Among 383 cancer survivors (58.5% women, mean age = 70.9 years, mean BMI = 29.3 kg/m2), prevalent cancer types were breast (22.9%), prostate (16.4%), colon (6.9%) and cervix (6.2%). In women, each increase in kg of handgrip strength was associated with 0.20 (95% CI: 0.08 to 0.33) higher score on AFT and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.30 to 1.35) higher score on DSST. In men, we observed an inverted U-shape association where cognitive function peaked at handgrip strength of 40-42 kg. Handgrip strength, a modifiable factor, appears to be associated with aspects of cognitive functions in cancer survivors. Prospective studies are needed to address their causal relationship.

  2. Functional source separation and hand cortical representation for a brain–computer interface feature extraction

    PubMed Central

    Tecchio, Franca; Porcaro, Camillo; Barbati, Giulia; Zappasodi, Filippo

    2007-01-01

    A brain–computer interface (BCI) can be defined as any system that can track the person's intent which is embedded in his/her brain activity and, from it alone, translate the intention into commands of a computer. Among the brain signal monitoring systems best suited for this challenging task, electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) are the most realistic, since both are non-invasive, EEG is portable and MEG could provide more specific information that could be later exploited also through EEG signals. The first two BCI steps require set up of the appropriate experimental protocol while recording the brain signal and then to extract interesting features from the recorded cerebral activity. To provide information useful in these BCI stages, our aim is to provide an overview of a new procedure we recently developed, named functional source separation (FSS). As it comes from the blind source separation algorithms, it exploits the most valuable information provided by the electrophysiological techniques, i.e. the waveform signal properties, remaining blind to the biophysical nature of the signal sources. FSS returns the single trial source activity, estimates the time course of a neuronal pool along different experimental states on the basis of a specific functional requirement in a specific time period, and uses the simulated annealing as the optimization procedure allowing the exploit of functional constraints non-differentiable. Moreover, a minor section is included, devoted to information acquired by MEG in stroke patients, to guide BCI applications aiming at sustaining motor behaviour in these patients. Relevant BCI features – spatial and time-frequency properties – are in fact altered by a stroke in the regions devoted to hand control. Moreover, a method to investigate the relationship between sensory and motor hand cortical network activities is described, providing information useful to develop BCI feedback control systems. This

  3. Transport in Rayleigh-stable experimental Taylor-Couette flow and granular electrification in a shaking experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nordsiek, Freja

    This dissertation consists of two projects: Rayleigh-stable Taylor-Couette flow and granular electrification. Taylor-Couette flow is the fluid flow in the gap between two cylinders rotating at different rates. Azimuthal velocity profiles, dye visualization, and inner cylinder torques were measured on two geometrically similar Taylor-Couettes with axial boundaries attached to the outer cylinder, the Maryland and Twente T3C experiments. This was done in the Rayleigh stable regime, where the specific angular momentum increases radially, which is relevant to astrophysical and geophysical flows and in particular, stellar and planetary accretion disks. The flow substantially deviates from laminar Taylor-Couette flow beginning at moderate Reynolds number. Angular momentum is primarily transported to the axial boundaries instead of the outer cylinder due to Ekman pumping when the inner cylinder is rotating faster than the outer cylinder. A phase diagram was constructed from the transitions identified from torque measurements taken over four decades of the Reynolds number. Flow angular velocities larger and smaller than both cylinders were found. Together, these results indicate that experimental Taylor-Couette with axial boundaries attached to the outer cylinder is an imperfect model for accretion disk flows. Thunderstorms, thunder-snow, volcanic ash clouds, and dust storms all display lightning, which results from electrification of droplets and particles in the atmosphere. While lightning is fairly well understood (plasma discharge), the mechanisms that result in million-volt differences across the storm are not. A novel granular electrification experiment was upgraded and used to study some of these mechanisms in the lab. The relative importance of collective interactions between particles versus particle properties (material, size, etc.) on collisional electrification was investigated. While particle properties have an order of magnitude effect on the strength of

  4. [The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) : The implementation of the ICF Core Sets for Hand Conditions in clinical routine as an example of application].

    PubMed

    Coenen, Michaela; Rudolf, Klaus-Dieter; Kus, Sandra; Dereskewitz, Caroline

    2018-05-24

    The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) provides a standardized language of almost 1500 ICF categories for coding information about functioning and contextual factors. Short lists (ICF Core Sets) are helpful tools to support the implementation of the ICF in clinical routine. In this paper we report on the implementation of ICF Core Sets in clinical routine using the "ICF Core Sets for Hand Conditions" and the "Lighthouse Project Hand" as an example. Based on the ICF categories of the "Brief ICF Core Set for Hand Conditions", the ICF-based assessment tool (ICF Hand A ) was developed aiming to guide the assessment and treatment of patients with injuries and diseases located at the hand. The ICF Hand A facilitates the standardized assessment of functioning - taking into consideration of a holistic view of the patients - along the continuum of care ranging from acute care to rehabilitation and return to work. Reference points for the assessment of the ICF Hand A are determined in treatment guidelines for selected injuries and diseases of the hand along with recommendations for acute treatment and care, procedures and interventions of subsequent treatment and rehabilitation. The assessment of the ICF Hand A according to the defined reference points can be done using electronic clinical assessment tools and allows for an automatic generation of a timely medical report of a patient's functioning. In the future, the ICF Hand A can be used to inform the coding of functioning in ICD-11.

  5. AUTOMATIC HAND COUNTER

    DOEpatents

    Mann J.R.; Wainwright, A.E.

    1963-06-11

    An automatic, personnel-operated, alpha-particle hand monitor is described which functions as a qualitative instrument to indicate to the person using it whether his hands are cold'' or hot.'' The monitor is activated by a push button and includes several capacitor-triggered thyratron tubes. Upon release of the push button, the monitor starts the counting of the radiation present on the hands of the person. If the count of the radiation exceeds a predetermined level within a predetermined time, then a capacitor will trigger a first thyratron tube to light a hot'' lamp. If, however, the count is below such level during this time period, another capacitor will fire a second thyratron to light a safe'' lamp. (AEC)

  6. Switching to the Rubber Hand

    PubMed Central

    Yeh, Su-Ling; Lane, Timothy Joseph; Chang, An-Yi; Chien, Sung-En

    2017-01-01

    Inducing the rubber hand illusion (RHI) requires that participants look at an imitation hand while it is stroked in synchrony with their occluded biological hand. Previous explanations of the RHI have emphasized multisensory integration, and excluded higher cognitive functions. We investigated the relationship between the RHI and higher cognitive functions by experimentally testing task switch (as measured by switch cost) and mind wandering (as measured by SART score); we also included a questionnaire for attentional control that comprises two subscales, attention-shift and attention-focus. To assess experience of RHI, the Botvinick and Cohen (1998) questionnaire was used and illusion onset time was recorded. Our results indicate that rapidity of onset reliably indicates illusion strength. Regression analysis revealed that participants evincing less switch cost and higher attention-shift scores had faster RHI onset times, and that those with higher attention-shift scores experienced the RHI more vividly. These results suggest that the multi-sensory hypothesis is not sufficient to explain the illusion: higher cognitive functions should be taken into account when explaining variation in the experience of ownership for the rubber hand. PMID:29312048

  7. Large Eddy Simulations of the Tilted Rig Experiment: A Two-dimensional Rayleigh-Taylor Instability Case

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rollin, Bertrand; Denissen, Nicholas A.; Reisner, Jon M.; Andrews, Malcolm J.

    2012-11-01

    The tilted rig experiment is a derivative of the rocket rig experiment designed to investigate turbulent mixing induced by the Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability. A tank containing two fluids of different densities is accelerated downwards between two parallel guiding rods by rocket motors. The acceleration is such that the pressure and density gradients face opposite directions at the fluids interface, creating a Rayleigh-Taylor unstable configuration. The rig is tilted such that the tank is initially at an angle and the acceleration is not perpendicular to the fluids interface when the rockets fire. This results in a two dimensional Rayleigh-Taylor instability case where the fluids experience RT mixing and a bulk overturning motion. The tilted rig is therefore a valuable experiment to help calibrating two-dimensional mixing models. Large Eddy Simulations of the tilted rig experiments will be compared to available experimental results. A study of the behavior of turbulence variables relevant to turbulence modeling will be presented. LA-UR 12-23829. This work was performed for the U.S. Department of Energy by Los Alamos National Laboratory under Contract No.DEAC52- 06NA2-5396.

  8. Adapting a Robot Hand to Specialized Functions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Clark, Keith H.

    1987-01-01

    Adaptor enables mechanical and electrical connections made easily between special-purpose end effector and arm of robot or remote mainpulator. Use in prosthetic devices also contemplatd. With adaptor, hand changed quickly from device designed to grasp objects of various sizes and shapes to device intended to do specific task efficiently.

  9. Forty years later at Taylor Woods: Merging the old and new

    Treesearch

    John D. Bailey

    2008-01-01

    The Taylor Woods "Levels-of-Growing-Stock" study was established in 1962 to create a replicated ponderosa pine density experiment for the Southwest, making a valuable addition to research in the Fort Valley Experimental Forest. Basal area treatments ranged from 5-20 m2/ha (19-80 ft2/ac) when installed, designed as...

  10. The Taylor saddle effacement: a new technique for correction of saddle nose deformity.

    PubMed

    Taylor, S Mark; Rigby, Matthew H

    2008-02-01

    To describe a novel technique, the Taylor saddle effacement (TSE), for correction of saddle nose deformity using autologous grafts from the lower lateral cartilages. A prospective evaluation of six patients, all of whom had the TSE performed. Photographs were taken in combination with completion of a rhinoplasty outcomes questionnaire preoperatively and at 6 months. The questionnaire included a visual analogue scale (VAS) of nasal breathing and a rhinoplasty outcomes evaluation (ROE) of nasal function and esthetics. All six patients had improvement in both their global nasal airflow on the VAS and on their ROE that was statistically significant. The mean preoperative VAS score was 5.8 compared with our postoperative mean of 8.5 of a possible 10. Mean ROE scores improved from 34.7 to 85.5. At 6 months, all patients felt that their nasal appearance had improved. The TSE is a simple and reliable technique for correction of saddle nose deformity. This prospective study has demonstrated improvement in both nasal function and esthetics when it is employed.

  11. Drug induced increases in CNS dopamine alter monocyte, macrophage and T cell functions: implications for HAND

    PubMed Central

    Gaskill, Peter J.; Calderon, Tina M.; Coley, Jacqueline S.; Berman, Joan W.

    2013-01-01

    Central nervous system (CNS) complications resulting from HIV infection remain a major public health problem as individuals live longer due to the success of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). As many as 70% of HIV infected people have HIV associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Many HIV infected individuals abuse drugs, such as cocaine, heroin or methamphetamine, that may be important cofactors in the development of HIV CNS disease. Despite different mechanisms of action, all drugs of abuse increase extracellular dopamine in the CNS. The effects of dopamine on HIV neuropathogenesis are not well understood, and drug induced increases in CNS dopamine may be a common mechanism by which different types of drugs of abuse impact the development of HAND. Monocytes and macrophages are central to HIV infection of the CNS and to HAND. While T cells have not been shown to be a major factor in HIV-associated neuropathogenesis, studies indicate that T cells may play a larger role in the development of HAND in HIV infected drug abusers. Drug induced increases in CNS dopamine may dysregulate functions of, or increase HIV infection in, monocytes, macrophages and T cells in the brain. Thus, characterizing the effects of dopamine on these cells is important for understanding the mechanisms that mediate the development of HAND in drug abusers. PMID:23456305

  12. Torque scaling in small-gap Taylor-Couette flow with smooth or grooved wall

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Bihai; Ji, Zengqi; Lou, Zhengkun; Qian, Pengcheng

    2018-03-01

    The torque in the Taylor-Couette flow for radius ratios η ≥0.97 , with smooth or grooved wall static outer cylinders, is studied experimentally, with the Reynolds number of the inner cylinder reaching up to Rei=2 ×105 , corresponding to the Taylor number up to Ta =5 ×1010 . The grooves are perpendicular to the mean flow, and similar to the structure of a submersible motor stator. It is found that the dimensionless torque G , at a given Rei and η , is significantly greater for grooved cases than smooth cases. We compare our experimental torques for the smooth cases to the fit proposed by Wendt [F. Wendt, Ing.-Arch. 4, 577 (1993), 10.1007/BF02084936] and the fit proposed by Bilgen and Boulos [E. Bilgen and R. Boulos, J Fluids Eng. 95, 122 (1973), 10.1115/1.3446944], which shows both fits are outside their range for small gaps. Furthermore, an additional dimensionless torque (angular velocity flux) N uω in the smooth cases exhibits an effective scaling of N uω˜T a0.39 in the ultimate regime, which occurs at a lower Taylor number, Ta ≈3.5 ×107 , than the well-explored η =0.714 case (at Ta ≈3 ×108 ). The same effective scaling exponent, 0.39, is also evident in the grooved cases, but for η =0.97 and 0.985, there is a peak before this exponent appears.

  13. Effectiveness of functional hand splinting and the cognitive orientation to occupational performance (CO-OP) approach in children with cerebral palsy and brain injury: two randomised controlled trial protocols

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Cerebral palsy (CP) and brain injury (BI) are common conditions that have devastating effects on a child’s ability to use their hands. Hand splinting and task-specific training are two interventions that are often used to address deficits in upper limb skills, both in isolation or concurrently. The aim of this paper is to describe the method to be used to conduct two randomised controlled trials (RCT) investigating (a) the immediate effect of functional hand splints, and (b) the effect of functional hand splints used concurrently with task-specific training compared to functional hand splints alone, and to task-specific training alone in children with CP and BI. The Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO-OP) approach will be the task-specific training approach used. Methods/Design Two concurrent trials; a two group, parallel design, RCT with a sample size of 30 participants (15 per group); and a three group, parallel design, assessor blinded, RCT with a sample size of 45 participants (15 per group). Inclusion criteria: age 4-15 years; diagnosis of CP or BI; Manual Abilities Classification System (MACS) level I – IV; hand function goals; impaired hand function; the cognitive, language and behavioural ability to participate in CO-OP. Participants will be randomly allocated to one of 3 groups; (1) functional hand splint only (n=15); (2) functional hand splint combined with task-specific training (n=15); (3) task-specific training only (n=15). Allocation concealment will be achieved using sequentially numbered, sealed opaque envelopes opened by an off-site officer after baseline measures. Treatment will be provided for a period of 2 weeks, with outcome measures taken at baseline, 1 hour after randomisation, 2 weeks and 10 weeks. The functional hand splint will be a wrist cock-up splint (+/- thumb support or supination strap). Task-specific training will involve 10 sessions of CO-OP provided in a group of 2-4 children. Primary outcome

  14. [The plexal hand (involvement of the hand in traumatic lesions of the brachial plexus in adults)].

    PubMed

    Alnot, J Y; Salon, A

    1993-01-01

    After spontaneous recovery following brachial plexus injuries, or after nerve regeneration following nervous surgery on traumatic brachial plexus, there usually is a variable residual distal deficit involving the hand and wrist. This deficit is defined by both a functional approach, and its anatomical nervous correspondence, in order to predict which motor muscles will be available for palliative surgery, and to establish the most reasonable therapeutic plan. Total palsy of the hand will only be mentioned, whereas three main presentations of the "plexic hand" are of a greater surgical interest and will be detailed: the "wrist drop", due to C5 C6 +/- C7 supra-clavicular lesions, the hand presenting with a deficit of digit flexion, pinch and intrinsic functions, due to C8 T1 +/- C7 supra-clavicular lesions, non-standardized deficits due to infra- and retro-clavicular lesions, whose therapeutic indications and prognosis are closer to more classical trunk palsies. The review of 44 "plexic hands" after distal palliative surgery indicates the need to modify the fundamental rules of tendinous transfer surgery, and suggests new principles properly adapted to the surgery of plexic hand palsies.

  15. Rasch Analysis of a New Hierarchical Scoring System for Evaluating Hand Function on the Motor Assessment Scale for Stroke

    PubMed Central

    Sabari, Joyce S.; Woodbury, Michelle; Velozo, Craig A.

    2014-01-01

    Objectives. (1) To develop two independent measurement scales for use as items assessing hand movements and hand activities within the Motor Assessment Scale (MAS), an existing instrument used for clinical assessment of motor performance in stroke survivors; (2) To examine the psychometric properties of these new measurement scales. Design. Scale development, followed by a multicenter observational study. Setting. Inpatient and outpatient occupational therapy programs in eight hospital and rehabilitation facilities in the United States and Canada. Participants. Patients (N = 332) receiving stroke rehabilitation following left (52%) or right (48%) cerebrovascular accident; mean age 64.2 years (sd 15); median 1 month since stroke onset. Intervention. Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures. Data were tested for unidimensionality and reliability, and behavioral criteria were ordered according to difficulty level with Rasch analysis. Results. The new scales assessing hand movements and hand activities met Rasch expectations of unidimensionality and reliability. Conclusion. Following a multistep process of test development, analysis, and refinement, we have redesigned the two scales that comprise the hand function items on the MAS. The hand movement scale contains an empirically validated 10-behavior hierarchy and the hand activities item contains an empirically validated 8-behavior hierarchy. PMID:25177513

  16. The tropical diabetic hand syndrome: a surgical perspective.

    PubMed

    Nthumba, Peter; Cavadas, Pedro C; Landin, Luis

    2013-01-01

    Tropical diabetic hand syndrome (TDHS) is an aggressive type of hand sepsis that results in significant morbidity and mortality among patients with diabetes in the tropics. This study set out to establish a protocol for the holistic management of TDHS to improve digit/hand salvage and function at AIC Kijabe Hospital. This prospective study examined the following demographics of patients presenting to the authors institution between October 2009 and September 2010 with TDHS: their sex, age, comorbidities, length of in-hospital stay, surgical and medical treatment, total cost of treatment, and immediate postdischarge outcomes. A total of 10 patients (3 men and 7 women) were presented with TDHS during the study period. Surgical procedures included a thorough debridement of the hand at initial presentation, followed by procedures aimed at preserving length and hand function, with digit or hand amputation when there was no possibility of salvage. Three hands were salvaged, without the need for an amputation; 2 of these, however, developed severe stiffness with resultant poor function. Fifty percent of the patients developed considerable disability; 3 of these patients had disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand, (DASH) scores of >90 at 6 months after treatment. TDHS appears to be more aggressive in some patients than in others; a multidisciplinary approach, with early involvement of the surgical team, and a radical surgical debridement are essential to improved outcomes. Although the goal of medical treatment (ie, glycemic control) is simple and easily achieved, surgical goals (salvage of limb or life, preservation of hand function) are more complex, costly, and difficult to achieve. Educating health care workers, diabetic patients, and their relatives on hand care is an important preventive measure. Diligence in taking antidiabetic medicine, early presentation, and appropriate care of TDHS are required for meaningful improvement in outcomes of patients with

  17. [Effect of axial stress stimulation on tibial and fibular open fractures healing after Taylor space stent fixation].

    PubMed

    Ge, Qihang; Wan, Chunyou; Liu, Yabei; Ji, Xu; Ma, Jihai; Cao, Haikun; Yong, Wei; Liu, Zhao; Zhang, Ningning

    2017-08-01

    To investigate the effect of axial stress stimulation on tibial and fibular open fractures healing after Taylor space stent fixation. The data of 45 cases with tibial and fibular open fractures treated by Taylor space stent fixation who meet the selection criteria between January 2015 and June 2016 were retrospectively analysed. The patients were divided into trial group (23 cases) and control group (22 cases) according to whether the axial stress stimulation was performed after operation. There was no significant difference in gender, age, affected side, cause of injury, type of fracture, and interval time from injury to operation between 2 groups ( P >0.05). The axial stress stimulation was performed in trial group after operation. The axial load sharing ratio was tested, and when the value was less than 10%, the external fixator was removed. The fracture healing time, full weight-bearing time, and external fixator removal time were recorded and compared. After 6 months of external fixator removal, the function of the limb was assessed by Johner-Wruhs criteria for evaluation of final effectiveness of treatment of tibial shaft fractures. There were 2 and 3 cases of needle foreign body reaction in trial group and control group, respectively, and healed after symptomatic anti allergic treatment. All the patients were followed up 8-12 months with an average of 10 months. All the fractures reached clinical healing, no complication such as delayed union, nonunion, or osteomyelitis occurred. The fracture healing time, full weight-bearing time, and external fixator removal time in trial group were significantly shorter than those in control group ( P <0.05). After 6 months of external fixator removal, the function of the limb was excellent in 13 cases, good in 6 cases, fair in 3 cases, and poor in 1 case in trial group, with an excellent and good rate of 82.6%; and was excellent in 5 cases, good in 10 cases, fair in 4 cases, and poor in 3 cases in control group, with an

  18. Turbulent transport and mixing in transitional Rayleigh-Taylor unstable flow: A priori assessment of gradient-diffusion and similarity modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schilling, Oleg; Mueschke, Nicholas J.

    2017-12-01

    Data from a 1152 ×760 ×1280 direct numerical simulation [N. J. Mueschke and O. Schilling, Phys. Fluids 21, 014106 (2009), 10.1063/1.3064120] of a Rayleigh-Taylor mixing layer modeled after a small-Atwood-number water-channel experiment is used to investigate the validity of gradient diffusion and similarity closures a priori. The budgets of the mean flow, turbulent kinetic energy, turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate, heavy-fluid mass fraction variance, and heavy-fluid mass fraction variance dissipation rate transport equations across the mixing layer were previously analyzed [O. Schilling and N. J. Mueschke, Phys. Fluids 22, 105102 (2010), 10.1063/1.3484247] at different evolution times to identify the most important transport and mixing mechanisms. Here a methodology is introduced to systematically estimate model coefficients as a function of time in the closures of the dynamically significant terms in the transport equations by minimizing the L2 norm of the difference between the model and correlations constructed using the simulation data. It is shown that gradient-diffusion and similarity closures used for the turbulent kinetic energy K , turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate ɛ , heavy-fluid mass fraction variance S , and heavy-fluid mass fraction variance dissipation rate χ equations capture the shape of the exact, unclosed profiles well over the nonlinear and turbulent evolution regimes. Using order-of-magnitude estimates [O. Schilling and N. J. Mueschke, Phys. Fluids 22, 105102 (2010), 10.1063/1.3484247] for the terms in the exact transport equations and their closure models, it is shown that several of the standard closures for the turbulent production and dissipation (destruction) must be modified to include Reynolds-number scalings appropriate for Rayleigh-Taylor flow at small to intermediate Reynolds numbers. The late-time, large Reynolds number coefficients are determined to be different from those used in shear flow applications and

  19. Acute hand burns in children: management and long-term outcome based on a 10-year experience with 698 injured hands.

    PubMed Central

    Sheridan, R L; Baryza, M J; Pessina, M A; O'Neill, K M; Cipullo, H M; Donelan, M B; Ryan, C M; Schulz, J T; Schnitzer, J J; Tompkins, R G

    1999-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To document long-term results associated with an coordinated plan of care for acutely burned hands in children. SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND DATA: Optimal hand function is a crucial component of a high-quality survival after burn injury. This can be achieved only with a coordinated approach to the injuries. Long-term outcomes associated with such a plan of care have not been previously reported. METHODS: Over a 10-year period, 495 children with 698 acutely burned hands were managed at a regional pediatric burn facility; 219 children with 395 injured hands were followed in the authors' outpatient clinic for at least 1 year and an average of >5 years. The authors' approach to the acutely burned hand emphasizes ranging and splinting throughout the hospital stay, prompt sheet autograft wound closure as soon as practical, and the selective use of axial pin fixation and flaps. Long-term follow-up, hand therapy, and reconstructive surgery are emphasized. RESULTS: Normal functional results were seen in 97% of second-degree and 85% of third-degree injuries; in children with burns involving underlying tendon and bone, 70% could perform activities of daily living and 20% had normal function. Reconstructive hand surgery was required in 4.4% of second-degree burns, 32% of third-degree burns, and 65% of those with injuries involving underlying bone and tendon. CONCLUSIONS: When managed in a coordinated long-term program, the large majority of children with serious hand burns can be expected to have excellent functional results. Images Figure 1. Figure 2. PMID:10203090

  20. Rayleigh-Taylor-instability evolution in colliding-plasma-jet experiments with magnetic and viscous stabilization

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Adams, Colin Stuart

    The Rayleigh-Taylor instability causes mixing in plasmas throughout the universe, from micron-scale plasmas in inertial confinement fusion implosions to parsec-scale supernova remnants. The evolution of this interchange instability in a plasma is influenced by the presence of viscosity and magnetic fields, both of which have the potential to stabilize short-wavelength modes. Very few experimental observations of Rayleigh-Taylor growth in plasmas with stabilizing mechanisms are reported in the literature, and those that are reported are in sub-millimeter scale plasmas that are difficult to diagnose. Experimental observations in well-characterized plasmas are important for validation of computational models used to make design predictionsmore » for inertial confinement fusion efforts. This dissertation presents observations of instability growth during the interaction between a high Mach-number, initially un-magnetized plasma jet and a stagnated, magnetized plasma. A multi-frame fast camera captures Rayleigh-Taylor-instability growth while interferometry, spectroscopy, photodiode, and magnetic probe diagnostics are employed to estimate plasma parameters in the vicinity of the collision. As the instability grows, an evolution to longer mode wavelength is observed. Comparisons of experimental data with idealized magnetohydrodynamic simulations including a physical viscosity model suggest that the observed instability evolution is consistent with both magnetic and viscous stabilization. These data provide the opportunity to benchmark computational models used in astrophysics and fusion research.« less

  1. Implied functional crossed cerebello-cerebral diaschisis and interhemispheric compensation during hand grasping more than 20 years after unilateral cerebellar injury in early childhood.

    PubMed

    Nakahachi, Takayuki; Ishii, Ryouhei; Canuet, Leonides; Iwase, Masao

    2015-01-01

    Crossed cerebello-cerebral diaschisis (CCCD) conventionally refers to decreased resting cerebral activity caused by injury to the contralateral cerebellum. We investigated whether functional activation of a contralesional cerebral cortical region controlling a specific task is reduced during task performance in a patient with a unilateral cerebellar lesion. We also examined functional compensation by the corresponding ipsilesional cerebral cortex. It was hypothesized that dysfunction of the primary sensorimotor cortex (SM1) contralateral to the cerebellar lesion would be detected together with a compensatory increase in neural activity of the ipsilesional SM1. To test these possibilities, we conducted non-invasive functional neuroimaging techniques for bilateral SM1 during hand grasping, a task known to activate predominantly the SM1 contralateral to the grasping hand. Activity in SM1 during hand grasping was measured electrophysiologically by magnetoencephalography and hemodynamically by near-infrared spectroscopy in an adult with mild right hemiataxia associated with a large injury of the right cerebellum due to resection of a tumor in early childhood. During left hand grasping, increased neural activity was detected predominantly in the right SM1, the typical developmental pattern. In contrast, neural activity increased in the bilateral SM1 with slight right-side dominance during right (ataxic) hand grasping. This study reported a case that implied functional CCCD and compensatory neural activity in the SM1 during performance of a simple hand motor task in an adult with unilateral cerebellar injury and mild hemiataxia 24 years prior to the study without rehabilitative interventions. This suggests that unilateral cerebellar injuries in early childhood may result in persistent functional abnormalities in the cerebrum into adulthood. Therapeutic treatments that target functional CCCD and interhemispheric compensation might be effective for treating ataxia due to

  2. Prism adaptation in alternately exposed hands.

    PubMed

    Redding, Gordon M; Wallace, Benjamin

    2013-08-01

    We assessed intermanual transfer of the proprioceptive realignment aftereffects of prism adaptation in right-handers by examining alternate target pointing with the two hands for 40 successive trials, 20 with each hand. Adaptation for the right hand was not different as a function of exposure sequence order or postexposure test order, in contrast with adaptation for the left hand. Adaptation was greater for the left hand when the right hand started the alternate pointing than when the sequence of target-pointing movements started with the left hand. Also, the largest left-hand adaptation appeared when that hand was tested first after exposure. Terminal error during exposure varied in cycles for the two hands, converging on zero when the right hand led, but no difference appeared between the two hands when the left hand led. These results suggest that transfer of proprioceptive realignment occurs from the right to the left hand during both exposure and postexposure testing. Such transfer reflects the process of maintaining spatial alignment between the two hands. Normally, the left hand appears to be calibrated with the right-hand spatial map, and when the two hands are misaligned, the left-hand spatial map is realigned with the right-hand spatial map.

  3. [Microsurgical 2nd toe transfer for catastrophic hand reconstruction].

    PubMed

    Placer, A; Lozano, Ja

    2007-01-01

    The correct reconstruction of the catastrophic hand requires complex surgical techniques. The microsurgical transference of a toe is indicated when all other reconstructive options are shown to be useless for the reconstruction of the required clamp function. In this clinical note we set out the case of a 32 year old man, who came to our accident and emergency department after suffering a traffic accident. After exploration the diagnosis was that of catastrophic left hand, among other policontusions. Urgent surgery was carried out, saving the maximum possible viable structures. The immediate result of this surgery was a hand with 1st, 4th and 5th functional fingers. As the essential clamp function between the 1st and 4th or 5th fingers was not totally satisfactory, we decided to reconstruct the 3rd finger of his hand with his ipsilateral 2nd toe. All pertinent studies to determine vascularisation of the flap were carried out in planning the surgery, and the microsurgical transfer was then realized, which was successful. Today, after a suitable rehabilitation, the patient has recovered a satisfactory function of heavy and fine clamp in the operated hand. Toe to hand transfer is a good option for finger reconstruction and its function. Rehabilitation is the key to functional recovery.

  4. Contralaterally Controlled Functional Electrical Stimulation Improves Hand Dexterity in Chronic Hemiparesis: A Randomized Trial

    PubMed Central

    Knutson, Jayme S.; Gunzler, Douglas D.; Wilson, Richard D.; Chae, John

    2016-01-01

    Background and Purpose It is unknown whether one method of neuromuscular stimulation for post-stroke upper limb rehabilitation is more effective than another. Our aim was to compare the effects of contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation (CCFES) to cyclic neuromuscular electrical stimulation (cNMES). Methods Stroke patients with chronic (> 6 months) moderate to severe upper extremity hemiparesis (n=80) were randomized to receive 10 sessions/week of CCFES- or cNMES-assisted hand opening exercise at home plus 20 sessions of functional task practice in the lab over 12 weeks. The task practice for the CCFES group was stimulation-assisted. The primary outcome was change in Box and Blocks Test (BBT) score at 6-months post-treatment. Upper extremity Fugl-Meyer (UEFM) and Arm Motor Abilities Test (AMAT) were also measured. Results At 6-months post-treatment, the CCFES group had greater improvement on the BBT, 4.6 (95% CI: 2.2, 7.0), than the cNMES group, 1.8 (95% CI: 0.6, 3.0); between-group difference, 2.8 (95% CI: 0.1, 5.5), p=0.045. No significant between-group difference was found for the UEFM (p=.888) or AMAT (p=.096). Participants who had the largest improvements on BBT were less than two years post-stroke with moderate (i.e., not severe) hand impairment at baseline. Among these, the 6-month post-treatment BBT gains of the CCFES group, 9.6 (95% CI: 5.6, 13.6), were greater than those of the cNMES group, 4.1 (95% CI: 1.7, 6.5); between-group difference, 5.5 (95% CI: 0.8, 10.2), p=0.023. Conclusions CCFES improved hand dexterity more than cNMES in chronic stroke survivors. Clinical Trial Registration URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00891319. PMID:27608819

  5. Contralaterally Controlled Functional Electrical Stimulation Improves Hand Dexterity in Chronic Hemiparesis: A Randomized Trial.

    PubMed

    Knutson, Jayme S; Gunzler, Douglas D; Wilson, Richard D; Chae, John

    2016-10-01

    It is unknown whether one method of neuromuscular electrical stimulation for poststroke upper limb rehabilitation is more effective than another. Our aim was to compare the effects of contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation (CCFES) with cyclic neuromuscular electrical stimulation (cNMES). Stroke patients with chronic (>6 months) moderate to severe upper extremity hemiparesis (n=80) were randomized to receive 10 sessions/wk of CCFES- or cNMES-assisted hand opening exercise at home plus 20 sessions of functional task practice in the laboratory for 12 weeks. The task practice for the CCFES group was stimulation assisted. The primary outcome was change in Box and Block Test (BBT) score at 6 months post treatment. Upper extremity Fugl-Meyer and Arm Motor Abilities Test were also measured. At 6 months post treatment, the CCFES group had greater improvement on the BBT, 4.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2-7.0), than the cNMES group, 1.8 (95% CI, 0.6-3.0), between-group difference of 2.8 (95% CI, 0.1-5.5), P=0.045. No significant between-group difference was found for the upper extremity Fugl-Meyer (P=0.888) or Arm Motor Abilities Test (P=0.096). Participants who had the largest improvements on BBT were <2 years post stroke with moderate (ie, not severe) hand impairment at baseline. Among these, the 6-month post-treatment BBT gains of the CCFES group, 9.6 (95% CI, 5.6-13.6), were greater than those of the cNMES group, 4.1 (95% CI, 1.7-6.5), between-group difference of 5.5 (95% CI, 0.8-10.2), P=0.023. CCFES improved hand dexterity more than cNMES in chronic stroke survivors. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00891319. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

  6. A Very Stable High Throughput Taylor Cone-jet in Electrohydrodynamics

    PubMed Central

    Morad, M. R.; Rajabi, A.; Razavi, M.; Sereshkeh, S. R. Pejman

    2016-01-01

    A stable capillary liquid jet formed by an electric field is an important physical phenomenon for formation of controllable small droplets, power generation and chemical reactions, printing and patterning, and chemical-biological investigations. In electrohydrodynamics, the well-known Taylor cone-jet has a stability margin within a certain range of the liquid flow rate (Q) and the applied voltage (V). Here, we introduce a simple mechanism to greatly extend the Taylor cone-jet stability margin and produce a very high throughput. For an ethanol cone-jet emitting from a simple nozzle, the stability margin is obtained within 1 kV for low flow rates, decaying with flow rate up to 2 ml/h. By installing a hemispherical cap above the nozzle, we demonstrate that the stability margin could increase to 5 kV for low flow rates, decaying to zero for a maximum flow rate of 65 ml/h. The governing borders of stability margins are discussed and obtained for three other liquids: methanol, 1-propanol and 1-butanol. For a gravity-directed nozzle, the produced cone-jet is more stable against perturbations and the axis of the spray remains in the same direction through the whole stability margin, unlike the cone-jet of conventional simple nozzles. PMID:27917956

  7. Jerome I. Friedman, Henry W. Kendall, Richard E. Taylor and the Development

    Science.gov Websites

    on the Web. Documents: Experimental Search for a Heavy Electron, DOE Technical Report, September 1967 1967 (Taylor, R. E.) Deep Inelastic Electron Scattering: Experimental, DOE Technical Report, October page may take you to non-federal websites. Their policies may differ from this site. Website Policies

  8. [Hand motor dysfunctions in computer users].

    PubMed

    Shavlovskaia, O A; Shvarkov, S B; Posokhov, S I

    2010-01-01

    It were studied 239 female typists aged from 16 to 62 years (mean age 20,1±7,8 years) using author's questionnaire for computer typists to assess hand function and develop preventive measures of disturbances revealed. Indirect signs of tunnel hand neuropathy (27,2%), focal hand dystonia (21,4%) and muscular-tonic syndromes of different localization (18%) have been found. Typists are a risk group of fine hand motor dysfunctions. As preventive measures, authors recommend to use computer auxiliary devices, to change a motor stereotype during the day, to make hand "motor holidays", to organize working place.

  9. Unilateral Cleft Hand with Cleft Foot

    PubMed Central

    Baba, Asif Nazir; Bhat, Yasmeen J.; Ahmed, Sheikh Mushtaq; Nazir, Abid

    2009-01-01

    Congenital anomalies of the hand form an important class of congenital malformations. They have a huge functional importance because of the part played by the hand in the daily activities of a person. The deformities also have significant cosmetic significance and may also be associated with other anomalies. Amongst the congenital anomalies, central deficiency or cleft hand is relatively rare. The association of cleft foot with cleft hand is an even more rare occurance. We present a case report of a 6 year old child, born of a non-consanginous marriage, having congenital central deficiency of ipsilateral hand and foot. PMID:21475543

  10. Truncation effect on Taylor-Aris dispersion in lattice Boltzmann schemes: Accuracy towards stability

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ginzburg, Irina; Roux, Laetitia

    2015-10-01

    The Taylor dispersion in parabolic velocity field provides a well-known benchmark for advection-diffusion (ADE) schemes and serves as a first step towards accurate modeling of the high-order non-Gaussian effects in heterogeneous flow. While applying the Lattice Boltzmann ADE two-relaxation-times (TRT) scheme for a transport with given Péclet number (Pe) one should select six free-tunable parameters, namely, (i) molecular-diffusion-scale, equilibrium parameter; (ii) three families of equilibrium weights, assigned to the terms of mass, velocity and numerical-diffusion-correction, and (iii) two relaxation rates. We analytically and numerically investigate the respective roles of all these degrees of freedom in the accuracy and stability in the evolution of a Gaussian plume. For this purpose, the third- and fourth-order transient multi-dimensional analysis of the recurrence equations of the TRT ADE scheme is extended for a spatially-variable velocity field. The key point is in the coupling of the truncation and Taylor dispersion analysis which allows us to identify the second-order numerical correction δkT to Taylor dispersivity coefficient kT. The procedure is exemplified for a straight Poiseuille flow where δkT is given in a closed analytical form in equilibrium and relaxation parameter spaces. The predicted longitudinal dispersivity is in excellent agreement with the numerical experiments over a wide parameter range. In relatively small Pe-range, the relative dispersion error increases with Péclet number. This deficiency reduces in the intermediate and high Pe-range where it becomes Pe-independent and velocity-amplitude independent. Eliminating δkT by a proper parameter choice and employing specular reflection for zero flux condition on solid boundaries, the d2Q9 TRT ADE scheme may reproduce the Taylor-Aris result quasi-exactly, from very coarse to fine grids, and from very small to arbitrarily high Péclet numbers. Since free-tunable product of two

  11. Tephra layers in the Siple Dome and Taylor Dome ice cores, Antarctica: Sources and correlations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dunbar, Nelia W.; Zielinski, Gregory A.; Voisins, Daniel T.

    2003-08-01

    Volcanic ash, or tephra layers, are found in the Taylor Dome, Siple Dome A, and Siple Dome B ice cores. Significant shard concentrations are found at a number of depths in all three cores. Electron and ion microprobe analyses indicate that the geochemical composition of most layers is basaltic, basanitic, or trachytic, and the geochemical signatures of the layers suggest derivation from the Pleiades volcanic center, Mt. Melbourne volcano, or small mafic centers, probably in the Royal Society Range area. Presence of tephra layers suggests an episode of previously unrecognized Antarctic volcanic activity between 1776 and 1805 A.D., from at least two volcanic centers. A strong geochemical correlation (D = 3.49 and 3.97 with a value of 4 considered identical) is observed between tephra layers at depth of 79.2 m in the Taylor Dome ice core, and layers between 97.2 and 97.7 m depth in the Siple B core. This correlation, and the highly accurate depth-age scale of the Siple B core suggest that the age of this horizon in the Taylor Dome ice core presented by [1998a, 2000] should be revised downward, to the younger age of 675 ± 25 years before 1995. This revised chronology is consistent with vertical strain measurements presented by [2003].

  12. Analyzing Traditional Medical Practitioners' Information-Seeking Behaviour Using Taylor's Information-Use Environment Model

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Olatokun, Wole Michael; Ajagbe, Enitan

    2010-01-01

    This survey-based study examined the information-seeking behaviour of traditional medical practitioners using Taylor's information use model. Respondents comprised all 160 traditional medical practitioners that treat sickle cell anaemia. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered, structured questionnaire. Frequency and percentage…

  13. Elimination of Gravity Influence on Flame Propagation Via Enhancement of the Saffman-Taylor Instability

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Aldredge, R. C.

    2003-01-01

    In this analytical work the influence of the Saffman-Taylor instability on flame propagation is formulated for computational investigation. Specifically, it is of interest to examine the influence of this instability as a potential means of eliminating the effect of gravitational acceleration on the development of thermoacoustic instability. Earlier experimental investigations of thermoacoustic instability employed tubes of large circular or annular cross-section, such that neither heat loss nor viscosity at the burner walls was of significant importance in influencing flame behavior. However, it has been demonstrated recently that flames propagating between closely spaced walls, may be subject to long-wavelength wrinkling associated with the Saffman-Taylor instability, known to be relevant when a less-viscous fluid pushes a more-viscous fluid through a porous medium or between two closely spaced walls.

  14. Limits of the potential flow approach to the single-mode Rayleigh-Taylor problem

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ramaprabhu, P.; Dimonte, Guy; Young, Yuan-Nan; Calder, A. C.; Fryxell, B.

    2006-12-01

    We report on the behavior of a single-wavelength Rayleigh-Taylor flow at late times. The calculations were performed in a long square duct (λ×λ×8λ) , using four different numerical simulations. In contradiction with potential flow theories that predict a constant terminal velocity, the single-wavelength Rayleigh-Taylor problem exhibits late-time acceleration. The onset of acceleration occurs as the bubble penetration depth exceeds the diameter of bubbles, and is observed for low and moderate density differences. Based on our simulations, we provide a phenomenological description of the observed acceleration, and ascribe this behavior to the formation of Kelvin-Helmholtz vortices on the bubble-spike interface that diminish the friction drag, while the associated induced flow propels the bubbles forward. For large density ratios, the formation of secondary instabilities is suppressed, and the bubbles remain terminal consistent with potential flow models.

  15. Normalisation of brain connectivity through compensatory behaviour, despite congenital hand absence.

    PubMed

    Hahamy, Avital; Sotiropoulos, Stamatios N; Henderson Slater, David; Malach, Rafael; Johansen-Berg, Heidi; Makin, Tamar R

    2015-01-06

    Previously we showed, using task-evoked fMRI, that compensatory intact hand usage after amputation facilitates remapping of limb representations in the cortical territory of the missing hand (Makin et al., 2013a). Here we show that compensatory arm usage in individuals born without a hand (one-handers) reflects functional connectivity of spontaneous brain activity in the cortical hand region. Compared with two-handed controls, one-handers showed reduced symmetry of hand region inter-hemispheric resting-state functional connectivity and corticospinal white matter microstructure. Nevertheless, those one-handers who more frequently use their residual (handless) arm for typically bimanual daily tasks also showed more symmetrical functional connectivity of the hand region, demonstrating that adaptive behaviour drives long-range brain organisation. We therefore suggest that compensatory arm usage maintains symmetrical sensorimotor functional connectivity in one-handers. Since variability in spontaneous functional connectivity in our study reflects ecological behaviour, we propose that inter-hemispheric symmetry, typically observed in resting sensorimotor networks, depends on coordinated motor behaviour in daily life.

  16. Pattern selection and tip perturbations in the Saffman-Taylor problem

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hong, D. C.; Langer, J. S.

    1987-01-01

    An analytic approach to the Saffman-Taylor problem of predicting the width of a viscous finger in a Hele-Shaw cell is presented. The first purpose is to provide a systematic description of the way in which the singular perturbation introduced by capillary forces leads to a solvability mechanism for pattern selection. It is then shown how recent experimental observations by Couder et al. (1986) may be interpreted in terms suggested by this mechanism.

  17. Short-term effect of local muscle vibration treatment versus sham therapy on upper limb in chronic post-stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Costantino, Cosimo; Galuppo, Laura; Romiti, Davide

    2017-02-01

    In recent years, local muscle vibration received considerable attention as a useful method for muscle stimulation in clinical therapy. Some studies described specific vibration training protocol, and few of them were conducted on post-stroke patients. Therefore there is a general uncertainty regarding the vibrations protocol. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of local muscle high frequency mechano-acoustic vibratory treatment on grip muscle strength, muscle tonus, disability and pain in post-stroke individuals with upper limb spasticity. Single-blind randomized controlled trial. Outpatient rehabilitation center. Thirty-two chronic poststroke patients with upper-limb spasticity: 21 males, 11 females, mean age 61.59 years ±15.50, time passed from stroke 37.78±17.72 months. The protocol treatment consisted of the application of local muscle vibration, set to a frequency of 300 Hz, for 30 minutes 3 times per week, for 12 sessions, applied to the skin covering the venter of triceps brachii and extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis muscles during voluntary isometric contraction. All participants were randomized in two groups: group A treated with vibration protocol; group B with sham therapy. All participants were evaluated before and after 4-week treatment with Hand Grip Strength Test, Modified Ashworth Scale, QuickDASH score, FIM scale, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test and Verbal Numerical Rating Scale of pain. Outcomes between groups was compared using a repeated-measures ANOVA. Over 4 weeks, the values recorded in group A when compared to group B demonstrated statistically significant improvement in grip muscle strength, pain and quality of life and decrease of spasticity; P-values were <0.05 in all tested parameters. Rehabilitation treatment with local muscle high frequency (300 Hz) vibration for 30 minutes, 3 times a week for 4 weeks, could significantly improve muscle strength and decrease muscle tonus, disability and

  18. Aeromagnetic Survey of Taylor Mountains Area in Southwest Alaska, A Website for the Distribution of Data

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    ,

    2006-01-01

    USGS Data Series Report for the release of aeromagnetic data collected in the Taylor Mountains Area of Southwest Alaska and associated contractor reports. Summary: An airborne high-resolution magnetic and coincidental horizontal magnetic gradiometer survey was completed over the Taylor Mountains area in southwest Alaska. The flying was undertaken by McPhar Geosurveys Ltd. on behalf of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). First tests and calibration flights were completed by April 7, 2004, and data acquisition was initiated on April 17, 2004. The final data acquisition and final test/calibrations flight was completed on May 31, 2004. Data acquired during the survey totaled 8,971.15 line-miles.

  19. The World of Barilla Taylor: Bringing History to Life through Primary Sources.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stearns, Liza

    1997-01-01

    Presents a lesson plan using material from a primary source-based curriculum kit titled "The World of Barilla Taylor." The kit uses personal letters, maps, hospital and work records, and other primary sources to document the life of a young woman working in the textile mills in 19th-century Massachusetts. (MJP)

  20. Effectiveness of the graded motor imagery to improve hand function in patients with distal radius fracture: A randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Dilek, Burcu; Ayhan, Cigdem; Yagci, Gozde; Yakut, Yavuz

    Single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Pain management is essential in the early stages of the rehabilitation of distal radius fractures (DRFx). Pain intensity at the acute stage is considered important for determining the individual recovery process, given that higher pain intensity and persistent pain duration negatively affect the function and cortical activity of pain response. Graded motor imagery (GMI) and its components are recent pain management strategies, established on a neuroscience basis. To investigate the effectiveness of GMI in hand function in patients with DRFx. Thirty-six participants were randomly allocated to either GMI (n = 17; 52.59 [9.8] years) or control (n = 19; 47.16 [10.5] years) groups. The GMI group received imagery treatment in addition to traditional rehabilitation, and the control group received traditional rehabilitation for 8 weeks. The assessments included pain at rest and during activity using the visual analog scale, wrist and forearm active range of motion (ROM) with universal goniometer, grip strength with the hydraulic dynamometer (Jamar; Bolingbrook, IL), and upper extremity functional status using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, and the Michigan Hand Questionnaire. Assessments were performed twice at baseline and at the end of the eighth week. The GMI group showed greater improvement in pain intensity (during rest, 2.24; activity, 6.18 points), wrist ROM (flexion, -40.59; extension, -45.59; radial deviation, -25.59; and ulnar deviation, -26.77 points) and forearm ROM (supination, -43.82 points), and functional status (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, 38.00; Michigan Hand Questionnaire, -32.53 points) when compared with the control group (for all, P < .05). The cortical model of pathological pain suggests new strategies established on a neuroscience basis. These strategies aim to normalize the cortical proprioceptive representation and reduce pain. One of

  1. Rarefaction-driven Rayleigh–Taylor instability. Part 1. Diffuse-interface linear stability measurements and theory

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Morgan, R. V.; Likhachev, O. A.; Jacobs, J. W.

    Theory and experiments are reported that explore the behaviour of the Rayleigh–Taylor instability initiated with a diffuse interface. Experiments are performed in which an interface between two gases of differing density is made unstable by acceleration generated by a rarefaction wave. Well-controlled, diffuse, two-dimensional and three-dimensional, single-mode perturbations are generated by oscillating the gases either side to side, or vertically for the three-dimensional perturbations. The puncturing of a diaphragm separating a vacuum tank beneath the test section generates a rarefaction wave that travels upwards and accelerates the interface downwards. This rarefaction wave generates a large, but non-constant, acceleration of the order ofmore » $$1000g_{0}$$, where$$g_{0}$$is the acceleration due to gravity. Initial interface thicknesses are measured using a Rayleigh scattering diagnostic and the instability is visualized using planar laser-induced Mie scattering. Growth rates agree well with theoretical values, and with the inviscid, dynamic diffusion model of Duffet al. (Phys. Fluids, vol. 5, 1962, pp. 417–425) when diffusion thickness is accounted for, and the acceleration is weighted using inviscid Rayleigh–Taylor theory. The linear stability formulation of Chandrasekhar (Proc. Camb. Phil. Soc., vol. 51, 1955, pp. 162–178) is solved numerically with an error function diffusion profile using the Riccati method. This technique exhibits good agreement with the dynamic diffusion model of Duffet al. for small wavenumbers, but produces larger growth rates for large-wavenumber perturbations. Asymptotic analysis shows a$$1/k^{2}$$decay in growth rates as$$k\\rightarrow \\infty$$for large-wavenumber perturbations.« less

  2. Rarefaction-driven Rayleigh–Taylor instability. Part 1. Diffuse-interface linear stability measurements and theory

    DOE PAGES

    Morgan, R. V.; Likhachev, O. A.; Jacobs, J. W.

    2016-02-15

    Theory and experiments are reported that explore the behaviour of the Rayleigh–Taylor instability initiated with a diffuse interface. Experiments are performed in which an interface between two gases of differing density is made unstable by acceleration generated by a rarefaction wave. Well-controlled, diffuse, two-dimensional and three-dimensional, single-mode perturbations are generated by oscillating the gases either side to side, or vertically for the three-dimensional perturbations. The puncturing of a diaphragm separating a vacuum tank beneath the test section generates a rarefaction wave that travels upwards and accelerates the interface downwards. This rarefaction wave generates a large, but non-constant, acceleration of the order ofmore » $$1000g_{0}$$, where$$g_{0}$$is the acceleration due to gravity. Initial interface thicknesses are measured using a Rayleigh scattering diagnostic and the instability is visualized using planar laser-induced Mie scattering. Growth rates agree well with theoretical values, and with the inviscid, dynamic diffusion model of Duffet al. (Phys. Fluids, vol. 5, 1962, pp. 417–425) when diffusion thickness is accounted for, and the acceleration is weighted using inviscid Rayleigh–Taylor theory. The linear stability formulation of Chandrasekhar (Proc. Camb. Phil. Soc., vol. 51, 1955, pp. 162–178) is solved numerically with an error function diffusion profile using the Riccati method. This technique exhibits good agreement with the dynamic diffusion model of Duffet al. for small wavenumbers, but produces larger growth rates for large-wavenumber perturbations. Asymptotic analysis shows a$$1/k^{2}$$decay in growth rates as$$k\\rightarrow \\infty$$for large-wavenumber perturbations.« less

  3. Compositional gradients in large reservoirs of silicic magma as evidenced by ignimbrites versus Taylor Creek Rhyolite lava domes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Duffield, Wendell A.; Ruiz, Joaquin

    1992-04-01

    The Taylor Creek Rhyolite of southwest New Mexico consists of 20 lava domes and flows that were emplaced during a period of a few thousand years or less in late Oligocene time. Including genetically associated pyroclastic deposits, which are about as voluminous as the lava domes and flows, the Taylor Creek Rhyolite represents roughly 100 km3 of magma erupted from vents distributed throughout an area of several hundred square kilometers. Major-element composition is metaluminous to weakly peraluminous high-silica rhyolite and is nearly constant throughout the lava field. The magma reservoir for the Taylor Creek Rhyolite was vertically zoned in trace elements, 87Sr/86Sr, and phenocryst abundance and size. Mean trace-element concentrations, ranges in concentrations, and element-pair correlations are similar to many subalkaline silicic ignimbrites. However, the polarity of the zonation was opposite that in reservoirs for ignimbrites, for most constituents. For example, compared to the Bishop Tuff, only 87Sr/86Sr and Sc increased upward in both reservoirs. Quite likely, a dominant but nonerupted volume of the magma reservoir for the Taylor Creek Rhyolite was zoned like that for the Bishop Tuff, whereas an erupted, few-hundred-meter-thick cap on the magma body was variably contaminated by roof rocks whose contribution to this part of the magma system moderated relatively extreme trace-element concentrations of uncontaminated Taylor Creek Rhyolite but did not change the sense of correlation for most element pairs. The contaminant probably was a Precambrian rock of broadly granitic composition and with very high 87Sr/86Sr. Although examples apparently are not yet reported in the literature, evidence for a similar thin contaminated cap on reservoirs for large-volume silicic ignimbrites may exist in the bottom few meters of ignimbrites or perhaps only in the pumice fallout that normally immediately precedes ignimbrite emplacement. 87Sr/86Sr in sanidine phenocrysts of the

  4. Compositional gradients in large reservoirs of silicic magma as evidenced by ignimbrites versus Taylor Creek Rhyolite lava domes

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Duffield, W.A.; Ruiz, J.

    1992-01-01

    The Taylor Creek Rhyolite of southwest New Mexico consists of 20 lava domes and flows that were emplaced during a period of a few thousand years or less in late Oligocene time. Including genetically associated pyroclastic deposits, which are about as voluminous as the lava domes and flows, the Taylor Creek Rhyolite represents roughly 100 km3 of magma erupted from vents distributed throughout an area of several hundred square kilometers. Major-element composition is metaluminous to weakly peraluminous high-silica rhyolite and is nearly constant throughout the lava field. The magma reservoir for the Taylor Creek Rhyolite was vertically zoned in trace elements, 87Sr/86Sr, and phenocryst abundance and size. Mean trace-element concentrations, ranges in concentrations, and element-pair correlations are similar to many subalkaline silicic ignimbrites. However, the polarity of the zonation was opposite that in reservoirs for ignimbrites, for most constituents. For example, compared to the Bishop Tuff, only 87Sr/86Sr and Sc increased upward in both reservoirs. Quite likely, a dominant but nonerupted volume of the magma reservoir for the Taylor Creek Rhyolite was zoned like that for the Bishop Tuff, whereas an erupted, few-hundred-meter-thick cap on the magma body was variably contaminated by roof rocks whose contribution to this part of the magma system moderated relatively extreme trace-element concentrations of uncontaminated Taylor Creek Rhyolite but did not change the sense of correlation for most element pairs. The contaminant probably was a Precambrian rock of broadly granitic composition and with very high 87Sr/86Sr. Although examples apparently are not yet reported in the literature, evidence for a similar thin contaminated cap on reservoirs for large-volume silicic ignimbrites may exist in the bottom few meters of ignimbrites or perhaps only in the pumice fallout that normally immediately precedes ignimbrite emplacement. 87Sr/86Sr in sanidine phenocrysts of the

  5. Viscous Rayleigh-Taylor instability in spherical geometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mikaelian, Karnig O.

    2016-02-01

    We consider viscous fluids in spherical geometry, a lighter fluid supporting a heavier one. Chandrasekhar [Q. J. Mech. Appl. Math. 8, 1 (1955), 10.1093/qjmam/8.1.1] analyzed this unstable configuration providing the equations needed to find, numerically, the exact growth rates for the ensuing Rayleigh-Taylor instability. He also derived an analytic but approximate solution. We point out a weakness in his approximate dispersion relation (DR) and offer a somewhat improved one. A third DR, based on transforming a planar DR into a spherical one, suffers no unphysical predictions and compares reasonably well with the exact work of Chandrasekhar and a more recent numerical analysis of the problem [Terrones and Carrara, Phys. Fluids 27, 054105 (2015), 10.1063/1.4921648].

  6. Theta Burst Stimulation in the Rehabilitation of the Upper Limb: A Semirandomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial in Chronic Stroke Patients

    PubMed Central

    Talelli, Penelope; Wallace, Amanda; Dileone, Michelle; Hoad, Damon; Cheeran, Binith; Oliver, Rupert; VandenBos, Mehdi; Hammerbeck, Ulrike; Barratt, Karen; Gillini, Cecilia; Musumeci, Gabriella; Boudrias, Marie-Hélène; Cloud, Geoffrey C.; Ball, Joanna; Marsden, Jonathan F.; Ward, Nicholas S.; Di Lazzaro, Vincenzo; Greenwood, Richard G.; Rothwell, John C.

    2013-01-01

    Background Noninvasive cortical stimulation could represent an add-on treatment to enhance motor recovery after stroke. However, its clinical value, including anticipated size and duration of the treatment effects, remains largely unknown. Objective The authors designed a small semi-randomized clinical trial to explore whether long-lasting clinically important gains can be achieved by adding theta burst stimulation (TBS), a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), to a rehabilitation program for the hand. Methods A total of 41 chronic stroke patients received excitatory TBS to the ipsilesional hemisphere or inhibitory TBS to the contralesional hemisphere in 2 centers; each active group was compared with a group receiving sham TBS. TBS was followed by physical therapy for 10 working days. Patients and therapists were blinded to the type of TBS. Primary outcome measures (9-hole Peg Test [9HPT], Jebsen Taylor Test [JTT], and grip and pinch-grip dynamometry) were assessed 4, 30, and 90 days post treatment. The clinically important difference was defined as 10% of the maximum score. Results There were no differences between the active treatment and sham groups in any of the outcome measures. All patients achieved small sustainable improvements—9HPT, 5% of maximum (confidence interval [CI] = 3%-7%); JTT, 5.7% (CI = 3%-8%); and grip strength, 6% (CI = 2%-10%)—all below the defined clinically important level. Conclusions Cortical stimulation did not augment the gains from a late rehabilitation program. The effect size anticipated by the authors was overestimated. These results can improve the design of future work on therapeutic uses of TMS. PMID:22412171

  7. Connections between centrifugal, stratorotational, and radiative instabilities in viscous Taylor-Couette flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Leclercq, Colin; Nguyen, Florian; Kerswell, Rich R.

    2016-10-01

    The "Rayleigh line" μ =η2 , where μ =Ωo/Ωi and η =ri/ro are respectively the rotation and radius ratios between inner (subscript i ) and outer (subscript o ) cylinders, is regarded as marking the limit of centrifugal instability (CI) in unstratified inviscid Taylor-Couette flow, for both axisymmetric and nonaxisymmetric modes. Nonaxisymmetric stratorotational instability (SRI) is known to set in for anticyclonic rotation ratios beyond that line, i.e., η2<μ <1 for axially stably stratified Taylor-Couette flow, but the competition between CI and SRI in the range μ <η2 has not yet been addressed. In this paper, we establish continuous connections between the two instabilities at finite Reynolds number Re, as previously suggested by Le Bars and Le Gal [Phys. Rev. Lett. 99, 064502 (2007), 10.1103/PhysRevLett.99.064502], making them indistinguishable at onset. Both instabilities are also continuously connected to the radiative instability at finite Re. These results demonstrate the complex impact viscosity has on the linear stability properties of this flow. Several other qualitative differences with inviscid theory were found, among which are the instability of a nonaxisymmetric mode localized at the outer cylinder without stratification and the instability of a mode propagating against the inner cylinder rotation with stratification. The combination of viscosity and stratification can also lead to a "collision" between (axisymmetric) Taylor vortex branches, causing the axisymmetric oscillatory state already observed in past experiments. Perhaps more surprising is the instability of a centrifugal-like helical mode beyond the Rayleigh line, caused by the joint effects of stratification and viscosity. The threshold μ =η2 seems to remain, however, an impassable instability limit for axisymmetric modes, regardless of stratification, viscosity, and even disturbance amplitude.

  8. Simulating the Rayleigh-Taylor instability with the Ising model

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ball, Justin R.; Elliott, James B.

    2011-08-26

    The Ising model, implemented with the Metropolis algorithm and Kawasaki dynamics, makes a system with its own physics, distinct from the real world. These physics are sophisticated enough to model behavior similar to the Rayleigh-Taylor instability and by better understanding these physics, we can learn how to modify the system to better re ect reality. For example, we could add a v x and a v y to each spin and modify the exchange rules to incorporate them, possibly using two body scattering laws to construct a more realistic system.

  9. Photographic copy of architectural drawings for Building 4315: Taylor & ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    Photographic copy of architectural drawings for Building 4315: Taylor & Barnes, Architects & Engineers, 803 W. Third Street, Los Angeles California, O.C.E. Office of Civil Engineer Job No. Muroc ESA 210-50 and 210-44, Military Construction: Muroc Flight Test Base, Muroc, California, Utility Yard & Shops: Carpenter & Paint Shop, Utility Shop & Lavatory, Plan & Elevations, Sheet No. 4 of 8, May 1945. Reproduced from the holdings of the National Archives, Pacific Southwest Region - Edwards Air Force Base, North Base, Utility & Paint Shop, Second & E Streets, Boron, Kern County, CA

  10. Reconstructive hand surgery for quadriplegic persons.

    PubMed

    Ainsley, J; Voorhees, C; Drake, E

    1985-11-01

    Reconstructive hand surgery is one approach to restoring lost hand function in quadriplegic patients. This paper describes Craig Hospital's experience with the two-stage procedure for achieving active grasp and pinch for C7 spinal cord-injured patients. It describes the hand clinic, patient selection and education, the surgery itself, and postsurgical occupational therapy. It also includes follow-up results on all patients treated since the program's inception.

  11. Forced magnetohydrodynamic turbulence in three dimensions using Taylor-Green symmetries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krstulovic, G.; Brachet, M. E.; Pouquet, A.

    2014-04-01

    We examine the scaling laws of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) turbulence for three different types of forcing functions and imposing at all times the fourfold symmetries of the Taylor-Green (TG) vortex generalized to MHD; no uniform magnetic field is present and the magnetic Prandtl number is equal to unity. We also include pumping in the induction equation, and we take the three configurations studied in the decaying case in Lee et al. [Phys. Rev. E 81, 016318 (2010), 10.1103/PhysRevE.81.016318]. To that effect, we employ direct numerical simulations up to an equivalent resolution of 20483 grid points. We find that, similarly to the case when the forcing is absent, different spectral indices for the total energy spectrum emerge, corresponding to either a Kolmogorov law, an Iroshnikov-Kraichnan law that arises from the interactions of turbulent eddies and Alfvén waves, or to weak turbulence when the large-scale magnetic field is strong. We also examine the inertial range dynamics in terms of the ratios of kinetic to magnetic energy, and of the turnover time to the Alfvén time, and analyze the temporal variations of these quasiequilibria.

  12. Validation Study of Unnotched Charpy and Taylor-Anvil Impact Experiments using Kayenta

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kamojjala, Krishna; Lacy, Jeffrey; Chu, Henry S.

    2015-03-01

    Validation of a single computational model with multiple available strain-to-failure fracture theories is presented through experimental tests and numerical simulations of the standardized unnotched Charpy and Taylor-anvil impact tests, both run using the same material model (Kayenta). Unnotched Charpy tests are performed on rolled homogeneous armor steel. The fracture patterns using Kayenta’s various failure options that include aleatory uncertainty and scale effects are compared against the experiments. Other quantities of interest include the average value of the absorbed energy and bend angle of the specimen. Taylor-anvil impact tests are performed on Ti6Al4V titanium alloy. The impact speeds of the specimenmore » are 321 m/s and 393 m/s. The goal of the numerical work is to reproduce the damage patterns observed in the laboratory. For the numerical study, the Johnson-Cook failure model is used as the ductile fracture criterion, and aleatory uncertainty is applied to rate-dependence parameters to explore its effect on the fracture patterns.« less

  13. Shock Corrugation by Rayleigh-Taylor Instability in Gamma-Ray Burst Afterglow Jets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Duffell, Paul C.; MacFadyen, Andrew I.

    2014-08-01

    Afterglow jets are Rayleigh-Taylor unstable and therefore turbulent during the early part of their deceleration. There are also several processes which actively cool the jet. In this Letter, we demonstrate that if cooling significantly increases the compressibility of the flow, the turbulence collides with the forward shock, destabilizing and corrugating it. In this case, the forward shock is turbulent enough to produce the magnetic fields responsible for synchrotron emission via small-scale turbulent dynamo. We calculate light curves assuming the magnetic field is in energy equipartition with the turbulent kinetic energy and discover that dynamic magnetic fields are well approximated by a constant magnetic-to-thermal energy ratio of 1%, though there is a sizeable delay in the time of peak flux as the magnetic field turns on only after the turbulence has activated. The reverse shock is found to be significantly more magnetized than the forward shock, with a magnetic-to-thermal energy ratio of the order of 10%. This work motivates future Rayleigh-Taylor calculations using more physical cooling models.

  14. [Retrospective analysis of effects of metacarpus and phalanx traction on correction of scar contracture of hand after burn on the palm side].

    PubMed

    Chunsheng, Hou; Qingye, Liu; Hongfei, Hao; Yuying, Dong; Feng, Wang; Jin, Lei

    2015-06-01

    contracture to wrist crease was measured before treatment, at the termination of treatment, and 1 month after the termination of treatment. Scar condition was assessed with the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) before treatment and 1, 3, and 6 month(s) after the termination of treatment. Before treatment and 1 month after the termination of treatment, the range of motion was measured with the Total Active Movement (TAM) method; band function was evaluated by the Jebsen Test of Hand Function (JTHF), and the completion time was recorded. Data were processed with analysis of variance, LSD-t test, and t test. Twenty-four patients with 27 affected hands were treated with scheme A + B; 5 patients with 7 affected hands were treated with method C exclusively; 2 patients with 3 affected hands were treated with scheme A + B + C; 1 patient with 2 affected hands were treated with scheme C + A + C. During the course of treatment, no complication such as infection or slicing of tissue was observed, but there was a slight shifting of U-shaped Kirschner wire in 14 affected hands of 13 patients. Tendency of recurrence of scar contracture was observed in 11 affected hands of 10 patients, but the scar contracture did not reoccur after treatment with orthosis. The skin length of palmar side was respectively (131.8 ± 9.8) and (127.6 ± 7.5) mm at the termination of treatment and 1 month after, and they were both significantly longer than that before treatment [(114.5 ± 2.4) mm, with values respectively 10.71 and 10.39, P values below 0.001]. The score of VSS was respectively (9.8 ± 2.4), (9.7 ± 1.7), (9.3 ± 0.8), and (7.7 ± 0.5) points before treatment and 1, 3, and 6 month(s) after the termination of treatment. Only the score at 6 months after the termination of treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment (t = 3.28, P < 0.01). The ratio of excellent and good results according to method TAM was respectively 2.6% (1/39) and 94.9% (37/39) before treatment and 1 month after the

  15. Does Surgical Management of the Hand in Children with Spastic Unilateral Cerebral Palsy Affect Functional Outcome?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    van Munster, Judith C.; Maathuis, Karel G. B.; Haga, Nienke; Verheij, Nienke P.; Nicolai, Jean-Philippe A.; Hadders-Algra, Mijna

    2007-01-01

    The aim of this review was to examine the literature on the effects of surgery of the spastic hand in children with cerebral palsy on functional outcome and muscle coordination. We performed a search of the relevant literature in Medline, Embase, and Biological Abstracts from 1966 to June 2006. The search resulted in eight studies on the effect of…

  16. Taylor dispersion in wind-driven current

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Gang; Wang, Ping; Jiang, Wei-Quan; Zeng, Li; Li, Zhi; Chen, G. Q.

    2017-12-01

    Taylor dispersion associated with wind-driven currents in channels, shallow lakes and estuaries is essential to hydrological environmental management. For solute dispersion in a wind-driven current, presented in this paper is an analytical study of the evolution of concentration distribution. The concentration moments are intensively derived for an accurate presentation of the mean concentration distribution, up to the effect of kurtosis. The vertical divergence of concentration is then deduced by Gill's method of series expansion up to the fourth order. Based on the temporal evolution of the vertical concentration distribution, the dispersion process in the wind-driven current is concretely characterized. The uniform shear leads to a special symmetrical distribution of mean concentration free of skewness. The non-uniformity of vertical concentration is caused by convection and smeared out gradually by the effect of diffusion, but fails to disappear even at large times.

  17. Experimental Evidence for Magnetorotational Instability in a Taylor-Couette Flow under the Influence of a Helical Magnetic Field

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stefani, Frank; Gundrum, Thomas; Gerbeth, Gunter; Rüdiger, Günther; Schultz, Manfred; Szklarski, Jacek; Hollerbach, Rainer

    2006-11-01

    A recent Letter [R. Hollerbach and G. Rüdiger, Phys. Rev. Lett. 95, 124501 (2005)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.95.124501] has shown that the threshold for the onset of the magnetorotational instability in a Taylor-Couette flow is dramatically reduced if both axial and azimuthal magnetic fields are imposed. In agreement with this prediction, we present results of a Taylor-Couette experiment with the liquid metal alloy GaInSn, showing evidence for the existence of the magnetorotational instability at Reynolds numbers of order 1000 and Hartmann numbers of order 10.

  18. [Arm Motor Function Recovery during Rehabilitation with the Use of Hand Exoskeleton Controlled by Brain-Computer Interface: a Patient with Severe Brain Damage].

    PubMed

    Biryukova, E V; Pavlova, O G; Kurganskaya, M E; Bobrov, P D; Turbina, L G; Frolov, A A; Davydov, V I; Sil'tchenko, A V; Mokienko, O A

    2016-01-01

    We studied the dynamics of motor function recovery in a patient with severe brain damage in the course of neurorehabilitation using hand exoskeleton controlled by brain-computer interface. For estimating the motor function of paretic arm, we used the biomechanical analysis of movements registered during the course of rehabilitation. After 15 weekly sessions of hand exoskeleton control, the following results were obtained: a) the velocity profile of goal-directed movements of paretic hand became bell-shaped, b) the patient began to extend and abduct the hand which was flexed and adducted in the beginning of rehabilitation, and c) the patient began to supinate the forearm which was pronated in the beginning of rehabilitation. The first result is an evidence of the general improvement of the quality of motor control, while the second and third results prove that the spasticity of paretic arm has decreased.

  19. Assessing the manipulative potentials of monkeys, apes and humans from hand proportions: implications for hand evolution.

    PubMed

    Liu, Ming-Jin; Xiong, Cai-Hua; Hu, Di

    2016-11-30

    The hand structure possesses a greater potential for performing manipulative skills than is typically observed, whether in humans or non-human anthropoids. However, a precise assessment of the potential manipulative skills of hands has been challenging, which hampers our understanding of the evolution of manipulative abilities in anthropoid hands. Here, we establish a functional model to quantitatively infer the manipulative potentials of anthropoid hands based on hand proportions. Our results reveal a large disparity of manipulative potentials among anthropoid hands. From the aspect of hand proportions, the human hand has the best manipulative potential among anthropoids. However, the species with a manipulative potential closer to that of humans are not our nearest relatives, chimpanzees, but rather, are certain monkey species. In combination with the phylogenetically informed morphometric analyses, our results suggest that the morphological changes of non-human anthropoid hands did not coevolve with the brain to facilitate the manipulative ability during the evolutionary process, although the manipulative ability is a survival skill. The changes in non-human anthropoid hands may have more likely evolved under selective pressure for locomotion than manipulation. © 2016 The Author(s).

  20. Interaction between ground water and surface water in Taylor Slough and vicinity, Everglades National Park, South Florida; study methods and appendixes

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Harvey, Judson W.; Jackson, J.M.; Mooney, R.H.; Choi, Jungyill

    2000-01-01

    The data presented in this report are products of an investigation that quantified interactions between ground water and surface water in Taylor Slough in Everglades National Park. Determining the extent of hydrologic interactions between wetland surface water and ground water in Taylor Slough is important because the balance of freshwater flow in the lower part of the Slough is uncertain. Although freshwater flows through Taylor Slough are quite small in comparison to Shark Slough (the larger of the two major sloughs in Everglades National Park), flows through Taylor Slough are especially important to the ecology of estuarine mangrove embayments of northeastern Florida Bay. Also, wetland and ground- water interactions must be quantified if their role in affecting water quality is to be determined. In order to define basic hydrologic characteristics of the wetland, depth of wetland peat was mapped, and hydraulic conductivity and vertical hydraulic gradients in peat were determined. During specific time periods representing both wet and dry conditions in the area, the distribution of major ions, nutrients, and water stable isotopes throughout the slough were determined. The purpose of chemical measurements was to identify an environmental tracer could be used to quantify ground-water discharge.

  1. Do Comorbidities Play a Role in Hand Osteoarthritis Disease Burden? Data from the Hand Osteoarthritis in Secondary Care Cohort.

    PubMed

    Damman, Wendy; Liu, Rani; Kroon, Féline P B; Reijnierse, Monique; Huizinga, Tom W J; Rosendaal, Frits R; Kloppenburg, Margreet

    2017-11-01

    Because the association and its clinical relevance between comorbidities and primary hand osteoarthritis (OA) disease burden is unclear, we studied this in patients with hand OA from our Hand OSTeoArthritis in Secondary care (HOSTAS) cohort. Cross-sectional data from the HOSTAS study were used, including consecutive patients with primary hand OA. Nineteen comorbidities were assessed: 18 self-reported (modified Charlson index and osteoporosis) and obesity (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ). Mean differences were estimated between patients with versus without comorbidities, adjusted for age and sex: for general disease burden [health-related quality of life (HRQOL), Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 physical component scale (0-100)] and disease-specific burden [self-reported hand function (0-36), pain (0-20; Australian/Canadian Hand OA Index), and tender joint count (TJC, 0-30)]. Differences above a minimal clinically important improvement/difference were considered clinically relevant. The study included 538 patients (mean age 61 yrs, 86% women, 88% fulfilled American College of Rheumatology classification criteria). Mean (SD) HRQOL, function, pain, and TJC were 44.7 (8), 15.6 (9), 9.3 (4), and 4.8 (5), respectively. Any comorbidity was present in 54% (287/531) of patients and this was unfavorable [adjusted mean difference presence/absence any comorbidity (95% CI): HRQOL -4.4 (-5.8 to -3.0), function 1.9 (0.4-3.3), pain 1.4 (0.6-2.1), TJC 1.3 (0.4-2.2)]. Number of comorbidities and both musculoskeletal (e.g., connective tissue disease) and nonmusculoskeletal comorbidities (e.g., pulmonary and cardiovascular disease) were associated with disease burden. Associations with HRQOL and function were clinically relevant. Comorbidities showed clinically relevant associations with disease burden. Therefore, the role of comorbidities in hand OA should be considered when interpreting disease outcomes and in patient management.

  2. Specialization of the left supramarginal gyrus for hand-independent praxis representation is not related to hand dominance.

    PubMed

    Króliczak, Gregory; Piper, Brian J; Frey, Scott H

    2016-12-01

    Data from focal brain injury and functional neuroimaging studies implicate a distributed network of parieto-fronto-temporal areas in the human left cerebral hemisphere as playing distinct roles in the representation of meaningful actions (praxis). Because these data come primarily from right-handed individuals, the relationship between left cerebral specialization for praxis representation and hand dominance remains unclear. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to evaluate the hypothesis that strongly left-handed (right hemisphere motor dominant) adults also exhibit this left cerebral specialization. Participants planned familiar actions for subsequent performance with the left or right hand in response to transitive (e.g., "pounding") or intransitive (e.g. "waving") action words. In linguistic control trials, cues denoted non-physical actions (e.g., "believing"). Action planning was associated with significant, exclusively left-lateralized and extensive increases of activity in the supramarginal gyrus (SMg), and more focal modulations in the left caudal middle temporal gyrus (cMTg). This activity was hand- and gesture-independent, i.e., unaffected by the hand involved in subsequent action performance, and the type of gesture (i.e., transitive or intransitive). Compared directly with right-handers, left-handers exhibited greater involvement of the right angular gyrus (ANg) and dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC), which is indicative of a less asymmetric functional architecture for praxis representation. We therefore conclude that the organization of mechanisms involved in planning familiar actions is influenced by one's motor dominance. However, independent of hand dominance, the left SMg and cMTg are specialized for ideomotor transformations-the integration of conceptual knowledge and motor representations into meaningful actions. These findings support the view that higher-order praxis representation and lower-level motor dominance rely on dissociable

  3. Specialization of the left supramarginal gyrus for hand-independent praxis representation is not related to hand dominance

    PubMed Central

    Króliczak, Gregory; Piper, Brian J.; Frey, Scott H.

    2016-01-01

    Data from focal brain injury and functional neuroimaging studies implicate a distributed network of parieto-fronto-temporal areas in the human left cerebral hemisphere as playing distinct roles in the representation of meaningful actions (praxis). Because these data come primarily from right-handed individuals, the relationship between left cerebral specialization for praxis representation and hand dominance remains unclear. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to evaluate the hypothesis that strongly left-handed (right hemisphere motor dominant) adults also exhibit this left cerebral specialization. Participants planned familiar actions for subsequent performance with the left or right hand in response to transitive (e.g., “pounding”) or intransitive (e.g. “waving”) action words. In linguistic control trials, cues denoted non-physical actions (e.g., “believing”). Action planning was associated with significant, exclusively left-lateralized and extensive increases of activity in the supramarginal gyrus (SMg), and more focal modulations in the left caudal middle temporal gyrus (cMTg). This activity was hand- and gesture-independent, i.e., unaffected by the hand involved in subsequent action performance, and the type of gesture (i.e., transitive or intransitive). Compared directly with right-handers, left-handers exhibited greater involvement of the right angular gyrus (ANg) and dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC), which is indicative of a less asymmetric functional architecture for praxis representation. We therefore conclude that the organization of mechanisms involved in planning familiar actions is influenced by one’s motor dominance. However, independent of hand dominance, the left SMg and cMTg are specialized for ideomotor transformations—the integration of conceptual knowledge and motor representations into meaningful actions. These findings support the view that higher-order praxis representation and lower-level motor dominance rely

  4. [The surgeon as a hand patient: the clinical and psychological impact of hand and wrist fractures].

    PubMed

    Chin, K R; Lonner, J H; Jupiter, B S; Jupiter, J B

    2010-03-01

    To gain insight into the management of patients with hand and wrist injuries, a series of clinical and psychological analyses was performed on 9 surgeons, each of whom underwent operative fixation of a hand or wrist fracture. The results of these analyses suggest that the functional outcome after hand surgery was affected by the surgeons' personality, motivation, and ability to accept and adapt to the injury, the nature of the injury, and the importance of the hand to the surgeons' careers. Surgeons are highly motivated and compulsive individuals who consider their career involvement a major source of identity and self-worth. Most returned to their operative duties ahead of the schedule set by their hand surgeons (average, 25 days after surgery), regarded their injuries as a positive challenge, and changed their lifestyles after injury to protect their hands.

  5. The effect of sensory-motor training on hand and upper extremity sensory and motor function in patients with idiopathic Parkinson disease.

    PubMed

    Taghizadeh, Ghorban; Azad, Akram; Kashefi, Sepiede; Fallah, Soheila; Daneshjoo, Fatemeh

    2017-11-14

    Blinded randomized controlled trial. Patients with Parkinson disease (PD) have sensory problems, but there is still no accurate understanding of the effects of sensory-motor interventions on PD. To investigate the effects of sensory-motor training (SMT) on hand and upper extremity sensory and motor function in patients with PD. Forty patients with PD were allocated to the SMT group or the control group (CG) (mean ages ± standard deviation: SMT, 61.05 ± 13.9 years; CG, 59.15 ± 11.26 years). The CG received the common rehabilitation therapies, whereas the SMT group received SMT. The SMT included discrimination of temperatures, weights, textures, shapes, and objects and was performed 5 times each week for 2 weeks. Significantly reducing the error rates in the haptic object recognition test (dominant hand [DH]: F = 15.36, P = .001, and effect size [ES] = 0.29; nondominant hand [NDH]: F = 9.33, P = .004, and ES = 0.21) and the error means in the wrist proprioception sensation test (DH: F = 9.11, P = .005, and ES = 0.19; NDH: F = 13.04, P = .001, and ES = 0.26) and increasing matched objects in the hand active sensation test (DH: F = 12.15, P = .001, and ES = 0.24; NDH: F = 5.03, P = .03, and ES = 0.12) founded in the SMT. Also, the DH (F = 6.65, P = .01, and ES = 0.15), both hands (F = 7.61, P = .009, and ES = 0.17), and assembly (F = 7.02, P = .01, and ES = 0.15) subtests of fine motor performance, as well as DH (F = 10.1, P = .003, and ES = 0.21) and NDH (F = 8.37, P = .006, and ES = 0.18) in upper extremity functional performance, were improved in the SMT. SMT improved hand and upper extremity sensory-motor function in patients with PD. The SMT group showed improved sensory and motor function. But these results were limited to levels 1 to 3 of the Hoehn and Yahr Scale. Copyright © 2017 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Heat transport in Rayleigh-Bénard convection and angular momentum transport in Taylor-Couette flow: a comparative study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brauckmann, Hannes J.; Eckhardt, Bruno; Schumacher, Jörg

    2017-03-01

    Rayleigh-Bénard convection and Taylor-Couette flow are two canonical flows that have many properties in common. We here compare the two flows in detail for parameter values where the Nusselt numbers, i.e. the thermal transport and the angular momentum transport normalized by the corresponding laminar values, coincide. We study turbulent Rayleigh-Bénard convection in air at Rayleigh number Ra=107 and Taylor-Couette flow at shear Reynolds number ReS=2×104 for two different mean rotation rates but the same Nusselt numbers. For individual pairwise related fields and convective currents, we compare the probability density functions normalized by the corresponding root mean square values and taken at different distances from the wall. We find one rotation number for which there is very good agreement between the mean profiles of the two corresponding quantities temperature and angular momentum. Similarly, there is good agreement between the fluctuations in temperature and velocity components. For the heat and angular momentum currents, there are differences in the fluctuations outside the boundary layers that increase with overall rotation and can be related to differences in the flow structures in the boundary layer and in the bulk. The study extends the similarities between the two flows from global quantities to local quantities and reveals the effects of rotation on the transport.

  7. Finding the Best Quadratic Approximation of a Function

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yang, Yajun; Gordon, Sheldon P.

    2011-01-01

    This article examines the question of finding the best quadratic function to approximate a given function on an interval. The prototypical function considered is f(x) = e[superscript x]. Two approaches are considered, one based on Taylor polynomial approximations at various points in the interval under consideration, the other based on the fact…

  8. Multiple eigenmodes of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability observed for a fluid interface with smoothly varying density

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, C. X.; Xue, C.; Liu, J.; Hu, X. Y.; Liu, Y. Y.; Ye, W. H.; Wang, L. F.; Wu, J. F.; Fan, Z. F.

    2018-01-01

    In this article, multiple eigen-systems including linear growth rates and eigen-functions have been discovered for the Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) by numerically solving the Sturm-Liouville eigen-value problem in the case of two-dimensional plane geometry. The system called the first mode has the maximal linear growth rate and is just extensively studied in literature. Higher modes have smaller eigen-values, but possess multi-peak eigen-functions which bring on multiple pairs of vortices in the vorticity field. A general fitting expression for the first four eigen-modes is presented. Direct numerical simulations show that high modes lead to appearances of multi-layered spike-bubble pairs, and lots of secondary spikes and bubbles are also generated due to the interactions between internal spikes and bubbles. The present work has potential applications in many research and engineering areas, e.g., in reducing the RTI growth during capsule implosions in inertial confinement fusion.

  9. Hand-transmitted vibration and biodynamic response of the human hand-arm: a critical review.

    PubMed

    Dong, R G; Rakheja, S; Schopper, A W; Han, B; Smutz, W P

    2001-01-01

    Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) has been associated with prolonged exposure to vibration transmitted to the human hand-arm system from hand-held power tools, vibrating machines, or hand-held vibrating workpieces. The biodynamic response of the human hand and arm to hand transmitted vibration (HTV) forms an essential basis for effective evaluations of exposures, vibration-attenuation mechanisms, and potential injury mechanisms. The biodynamic response to HTV and its relationship to HAVS are critically reviewed and discussed to highlight the advances and the need for further research. In view of its strong dependence on the nature of HTV and the lack of general agreement on the characteristics of HTV, the reported studies are first reviewed to enhance an understanding of HTV and related issues. The characteristics of HTV and relevant unresolved issues are discussed on the basis of measured data, proposed standards, and measurement methods, while the need for further developments in measurement systems is emphasized. The studies on biodynamic response and their findings are grouped into four categories based on the methodology used and the objective. These include studies on (1) through-the-hand-arm response, expressed in terms of vibration transmissibility; (2) to-the-hand response, expressed in terms of the force-motion relationship of the hand-arm system; (3) to-the-hand biodynamic response function, expressed in terms of vibration energy absorption; and (4) computer modeling of the biodynamic response characteristics.

  10. 2. Photographic copy of architectural elevations for Building 4505, Taylor ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    2. Photographic copy of architectural elevations for Building 4505, Taylor & Barnes, Architects & Engineers, 803 W. Third Street, Los Angeles California, O.C.E. Office of Civil Engineer Job No. A(9-10), Military Construction: Materiel Command Flight Test Base, Muroc, California, Hangar and Auxiliary Buildings: Hangar Type P-A, Exterior Elevations, Sheet No. 18, March 1944. Reproduced from the holdings of the National Archives, Pacific Southwest Region - Edwards Air Force Base, North Base, Hangar, End of North Base Road, Boron, Kern County, CA

  11. Experiments of the highly non-linear Rayleigh-Taylor instability regime and dependence on Atwood Number

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Elgin, L.; Handy, T.; Malamud, G.; Huntington, C. M.; Trantham, M. R.; Klein, S. R.; Kuranz, C. C.; Drake, R. P.; Shvarts, D.

    2017-10-01

    Potential flow models predict that a Rayleigh-Taylor unstable system will reach a terminal velocity (and constant Froude number) at low Atwood numbers. Numerical simulations predict a re-acceleration phase of Rayleigh-Taylor Instability (RTI) and higher Froude number at late times. To observe this effect, we are conducting a series of experiments at OMEGA 60 to measure single-mode RTI growth at low and high Atwood numbers and late times. X-ray radiographs spanning 40 + ns capture the evolution of these systems. Experimental design challenges and initial results are discussed here. This work is funded by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under subcontract B614207, and was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract No. DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  12. Roles of bulk viscosity on Rayleigh-Taylor instability: Non-equilibrium thermodynamics due to spatio-temporal pressure fronts

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sengupta, Tapan K., E-mail: tksen@iitk.ac.in; Bhole, Ashish; Shruti, K. S.

    Direct numerical simulations of Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) between two air masses with a temperature difference of 70 K is presented using compressible Navier-Stokes formulation in a non-equilibrium thermodynamic framework. The two-dimensional flow is studied in an isolated box with non-periodic walls in both vertical and horizontal directions. The non-conducting interface separating the two air masses is impulsively removed at t = 0 (depicting a heaviside function). No external perturbation has been used at the interface to instigate the instability at the onset. Computations have been carried out for rectangular and square cross sections. The formulation is free of Boussinesq approximationmore » commonly used in many Navier-Stokes formulations for RTI. Effect of Stokes’ hypothesis is quantified, by using models from acoustic attenuation measurement for the second coefficient of viscosity from two experiments. Effects of Stokes’ hypothesis on growth of mixing layer and evolution of total entropy for the Rayleigh-Taylor system are reported. The initial rate of growth is observed to be independent of Stokes’ hypothesis and the geometry of the box. Following this stage, growth rate is dependent on the geometry of the box and is sensitive to the model used. As a consequence of compressible formulation, we capture pressure wave-packets with associated reflection and rarefaction from the non-periodic walls. The pattern and frequency of reflections of pressure waves noted specifically at the initial stages are reflected in entropy variation of the system.« less

  13. A qualitative analysis of the experience and impact of killing in hand-to-hand combat.

    PubMed

    Jensen, Peter R; Simpson, Duncan

    2014-08-01

    A growing body of research suggests that killing during military combat is closely associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as a number of other adverse mental health related conditions (e.g., dissociative experiences, violent behavior, functional impairment). This article provides first-person perspectives on the experiences and impact of killing by service members with the goal of expanding our understanding of the impact of taking a life during war. In audio-recorded phenomenological interviews, 9 service members described their experiences and the subsequent impact of killing during hand-to-hand combat. A description, supported by participant quotations, was constructed to represent the participants' experiences. Results suggest the experience and aftermath of taking a life in hand-to-hand combat was disturbing, psychologically stressful, and necessitated some form of coping after the event. Service members who killed in hand-to-hand combat viewed their actions as necessary to preserve their life and that killing in hand-to-hand combat was more emotionally taxing than killing by shooting. Our findings may help to improve providers' understanding of service members' first-person experiences of killing in hand-to-hand combat and thus provide the basis for the development of a connected and genuine relationship with such military clients. Copyright © 2014 International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

  14. How high energy fluxes may affect Rayleigh–Taylor instability growth in young supernova remnants

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kuranz, Carolyn C.; Park, Hye -Sook; Huntington, Channing M.

    Here, energy-transport effects can alter the structure that develops as a supernova evolves into a supernova remnant. The Rayleigh–Taylor instability is thought to produce structure at the interface between the stellar ejecta and the circumstellar matter, based on simple models and hydrodynamic simulations. Here we report experimental results from the National Ignition Facility to explore how large energy fluxes, which are present in supernovae, affect this structure. We observed a reduction in Rayleigh–Taylor growth. In analyzing the comparison with supernova SN1993J, a Type II supernova, we found that the energy fluxes produced by heat conduction appear to be larger thanmore » the radiative energy fluxes, and large enough to have dramatic consequences. No reported astrophysical simulations have included radiation and heat conduction self-consistently in modeling supernova remnants and these dynamics should be noted in the understanding of young supernova remnants.« less

  15. How high energy fluxes may affect Rayleigh–Taylor instability growth in young supernova remnants

    DOE PAGES

    Kuranz, Carolyn C.; Park, Hye -Sook; Huntington, Channing M.; ...

    2018-04-19

    Here, energy-transport effects can alter the structure that develops as a supernova evolves into a supernova remnant. The Rayleigh–Taylor instability is thought to produce structure at the interface between the stellar ejecta and the circumstellar matter, based on simple models and hydrodynamic simulations. Here we report experimental results from the National Ignition Facility to explore how large energy fluxes, which are present in supernovae, affect this structure. We observed a reduction in Rayleigh–Taylor growth. In analyzing the comparison with supernova SN1993J, a Type II supernova, we found that the energy fluxes produced by heat conduction appear to be larger thanmore » the radiative energy fluxes, and large enough to have dramatic consequences. No reported astrophysical simulations have included radiation and heat conduction self-consistently in modeling supernova remnants and these dynamics should be noted in the understanding of young supernova remnants.« less

  16. Smart Hand For Manipulators

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fiorini, Paolo

    1987-10-01

    Sensor based, computer controlled end effectors for mechanical arms are receiving more and more attention in the robotics industry, because commonly available grippers are only adequate for simple pick and place tasks. This paper describes the current status of the research at JPL on a smart hand for a Puma 560 robot arm. The hand is a self contained, autonomous system, capable of executing high level commands from a supervisory computer. The mechanism consists of parallel fingers, powered by a DC motor, and controlled by a microprocessor embedded in the hand housing. Special sensors are integrated in the hand for measuring the grasp force of the fingers, and for measuring forces and torques applied between the arm and the surrounding environment. Fingers can be exercised under position, velocity and force control modes. The single-chip microcomputer in the hand executes the tasks of communication, data acquisition and sensor based motor control, with a sample cycle of 2 ms and a transmission rate of 9600 baud. The smart hand described in this paper represents a new development in the area of end effector design because of its multi-functionality and autonomy. It will also be a versatile test bed for experimenting with advanced control schemes for dexterous manipulation.

  17. Design and Preliminary Feasibility Study of a Soft Robotic Glove for Hand Function Assistance in Stroke Survivors

    PubMed Central

    Yap, Hong Kai; Lim, Jeong Hoon; Nasrallah, Fatima; Yeow, Chen-Hua

    2017-01-01

    Various robotic exoskeletons have been proposed for hand function assistance during activities of daily living (ADL) of stroke survivors. However, traditional exoskeletons involve the use of complex rigid systems that impede the natural movement of joints, and thus reduce the wearability and cause discomfort to the user. The objective of this paper is to design and evaluate a soft robotic glove that is able to provide hand function assistance using fabric-reinforced soft pneumatic actuators. These actuators are made of silicone rubber which has an elastic modulus similar to human tissues. Thus, they are intrinsically soft and compliant. Upon air pressurization, they are able to support finger range of motion (ROM) and generate the desired actuation of the finger joints. In this work, the soft actuators were characterized in terms of their blocked tip force, normal and frictional grip force outputs. Combining the soft actuators and flexible textile materials, a soft robotic glove was developed for grasping assistance during ADL for stroke survivors. The glove was evaluated on five healthy participants for its assisted ROM and grip strength. Pilot test was performed in two stroke survivors to evaluate the efficacy of the glove in assisting functional grasping activities. Our results demonstrated that the actuators designed in this study could generate desired force output at a low air pressure. The glove had a high kinematic transparency and did not affect the active ROM of the finger joints when it was being worn by the participants. With the assistance of the glove, the participants were able to perform grasping actions with sufficient assisted ROM and grip strength, without any voluntary effort. Additionally, pilot test on stroke survivors demonstrated that the patient's grasping performance improved with the presence and assistance of the glove. Patient feedback questionnaires also showed high level of patient satisfaction and comfort. In conclusion, this paper

  18. Rayleigh-Taylor instability in accelerated elastic-solid slabs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Piriz, S. A.; Piriz, A. R.; Tahir, N. A.

    2017-12-01

    We develop the linear theory for the asymptotic growth of the incompressible Rayleigh-Taylor instability of an accelerated solid slab of density ρ2, shear modulus G , and thickness h , placed over a semi-infinite ideal fluid of density ρ1<ρ2 . It extends previous results for Atwood number AT=1 [B. J. Plohr and D. H. Sharp, Z. Angew. Math. Phys. 49, 786 (1998), 10.1007/s000330050121] to arbitrary values of AT and unveil the singular feature of an instability threshold below which the slab is stable for any perturbation wavelength. As a consequence, an accelerated elastic-solid slab is stable if ρ2g h /G ≤2 (1 -AT) /AT .

  19. A New NPGS Special Collection: Norman L. Taylor University of Kentucky Clover Collection

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Dr. Norman L. Taylor was a world renowned Professor and clover breeder in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Kentucky for 48 years. Following retirement in 2001, he continued working on clovers up until his death in 2010. Dr. Taylor’s entire career was devoted to enhancin...

  20. Reduced asymmetry in motor skill learning in left-handed compared to right-handed individuals.

    PubMed

    McGrath, Robert L; Kantak, Shailesh S

    2016-02-01

    Hemispheric specialization for motor control influences how individuals perform and adapt to goal-directed movements. In contrast to adaptation, motor skill learning involves a process wherein one learns to synthesize novel movement capabilities in absence of perturbation such that they are performed with greater accuracy, consistency and efficiency. Here, we investigated manual asymmetry in acquisition and retention of a complex motor skill that requires speed and accuracy for optimal performance in right-handed and left-handed individuals. We further determined if degree of handedness influences motor skill learning. Ten right-handed (RH) and 10 left-handed (LH) adults practiced two distinct motor skills with their dominant or nondominant arms during separate sessions two-four weeks apart. Learning was quantified by changes in the speed-accuracy tradeoff function measured at baseline and one-day retention. Manual asymmetry was evident in the RH group but not the LH group. RH group demonstrated significantly greater skill improvement for their dominant-right hand than their nondominant-left hand. In contrast, for the LH group, both dominant and nondominant hands demonstrated comparable learning. Less strongly-LH individuals (lower EHI scores) exhibited more learning of their dominant hand. These results suggest that while hemispheric specialization influences motor skill learning, these effects may be influenced by handedness. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.